What if your DNA could help you avoid serious illnesses before they even start? In this episode of Genetics for Healthcare, we sit down with Dr. Robert Green, a leading medical geneticist at Harvard Medical School, to explore how cutting-edge genomics is transforming healthcare from reactive to proactive. Dr. Green’s work focuses on using whole genome sequencing to uncover hidden health risks—giving people the power to take action early and prevent disease.
Dr. Green explains how genetic testing isn’t just for diagnosing rare conditions anymore. Today, it can reveal critical health insights for anyone, from newborns to healthy adults. For example, about 1 in 7 people carry genetic variants that could put them at risk for conditions like heart disease, cancer, or Alzheimer’s—but if caught early, many of these risks can be managed or even prevented. He shares real-world stories from his BabySeq Project, where sequencing newborns uncovered life-changing health clues that traditional medicine missed.
Yet despite its potential, integrating genomics into everyday healthcare isn’t simple. Dr. Green discusses challenges like outdated medical systems, insurance hurdles, and the need for better education, while also highlighting exciting solutions, including AI and patient advocacy. He leaves listeners with practical steps to take control of their genetic health, whether through clinical testing, asking the right questions, or joining emerging research programs.
Tune in to learn how genomics is shifting medicine from “waiting to get sick” to staying healthy and how you can be part of this revolution.
Follow Dr Green and his research on these social media platforms:
X: @Genomes2People, @FrancaFund, @IConSeqOrg, @RobertCGreen
Instagram: @Genomes2People, @Franca_Fund, @iconseq_org, @robertcgreenmd
Facebook: Genomes2People, iconseq
BlueSky: @RobertCGreen.bsky.social, @genomes2people.bsky.social
Visit these links for more information on Dr Green’s research programs:
