What is Precision Medicine and Biobanks?
Precision Medicine: A healthcare approach that tailors treatment to individual patients based on genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
Biobanks: Repositories that store biological samples (like blood, DNA, and tissues) along with associated genetic data for research purposes.
Precision Medicine in India
The Indian precision medicine market is growing rapidly, estimated to reach over $5 billion by 2030.
It accounts for 36% of India's bioeconomy and is supported by government initiatives and new therapies, like CAR-T cell therapy.
Biobanks in Precision Medicine
Biobanks are crucial for precision medicine as they provide diverse samples needed for research and understanding diseases.
Large and varied biobanks enhance the applicability of findings across different populations.
Biobanks in India
India has 19 registered biobanks that store various biological specimens.
Projects like ‘Genome India’ and ‘Phenome India’ aim to gather extensive genomic data to improve disease prediction and treatment.
India’s Biobanking Regulations
Current regulations in India are inconsistent and lack comprehensive laws for informed consent and data protection.
There is no single authority regulating biobanks, leading to potential ethical issues and public distrust.
A Leadership Opportunity
Strengthening data protection and regulatory frameworks can increase public participation in biobanking.
Aligning with international standards will enhance India's role in global healthcare and pharmaceuticals, fostering trust and collaboration in precision medicine.
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