Overview

• The NHS will roll out whole genome sequencing for all newborns in England within a decade, expanding on a 100,000-baby pilot screening for over 200 genetic conditions.
• The government has allocated £650 million to genomics under its life sciences sector plan to fund the long-term health strategy.
• Health Secretary Wes Streeting says personalised genome data will enable a move from reactive treatment to proactive disease prevention and tailored care.
• The 10-year health plan, due in early July, outlines shifts from hospital to community care, analogue to digital services, and a £29 billion annual funding increase over three years.
• Clinicians and patient advocates welcome early diagnosis but warn that ethical, privacy and data-security frameworks must keep pace with the genomic expansion.