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Page 55 Chu et al. J Transl Genet Genom 2023;7:66-78 https://dx.doi.org/10.20517/jtgg.2023.01

Conclusion: Our results shaped the strategies for publicizing the Pilot Phase of HKGP and laid a patient-oriented
foundation for HKGP’s Main Phase.

Keywords: Hong Kong Genome Project, genomic medicine, whole-genome sequencing, public awareness, genomic
literacy

INTRODUCTION
Public distrust as a common obstacle to genomics advancement
With the advancement of genomic technologies and discoveries, scientists and researchers can perform
accurate variant interpretation to solve clinical mysteries and inform medical diagnoses and treatment in
actionable and precise ways. These interpretations can only be realized if DNA and supplementary medical
data are provided for substantial numbers of patients and the public for research and clinical initiatives. The
support and trust of patients and the public in collecting and using genomic data are central to the
successful implementation and sustainability of any large-scale genomic research project . Despite the
[1]
contributions of genomic testing to precision medicine, public distrust remains a significant obstacle for
health policymakers globally .
[2-4]
With reference to the collaborative efforts in global genome project initiatives, the substantial volume of
data from China contributes to understanding human genomes and genomic diversity. The future of
precision genomic medicine in the Chinese population relies on the ability of researchers and clinicians to
access substantial quantities of genomic and health data. The Hong Kong Genome Institute (HKGI) was
established in May 2020 by the Food and Health Bureau (currently the Health Bureau) to spearhead the
integration of genomic medicine into mainstream healthcare. As mentioned in our previous publication, the
Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region established the Steering Committee on
Genomic Medicine in 2017 to formulate strategies for the development of genomic medicine in Hong Kong;
one of its objectives is to enhance public engagement in genomic medicine by launching the Hong Kong
Genome Project (HKGP) .
[5]

The HKGP is the first large-scale genome sequencing project in Hong Kong that aims to (i) utilize whole-
genome sequencing (WGS) to identify disease-causing mutation(s) in patients with undiagnosed disorders
and cancers with a possible hereditary component; and (ii) enhance the application of genomic medicine to
benefit patients and their families with precise diagnosis and personalized medicine. The goal is to facilitate
public awareness and understanding, the foundation of building public trust in genomic medicine. HKGP
spearheads the first “See the Unseen” campaign involving the efforts of genomic-science professionals in
HKGI and other medical fields in Hong Kong.

HKGP - a participant-oriented project for the Hong Kong population
Since its incorporation in May 2020, the HKGI has been recruiting talent in the field, establishing the
necessary hardware and software for implementing the HKGP. It is governed by six committees, overseen
by the Board of Directors. Among the six committees, the Communications and Education Committee
(CEC) is critical for (1) harnessing advice on the strategy and value proposition of HKGP in publicity and
education matters; and (2) reviewing and overseeing HKGI’s branding, communications, publicity
activities, and critical messages delivered to the public.

A strategic focus of the three-year Strategic Plan (2022-2025) of HKGI spelled out the specific strategies for
[6]
improving awareness and knowledge of genomic medicine in the general population . The primary
directive is to engage potential patients, targeted stakeholders, and the public to enhance their