We are Genomics England and our vision is to create a world where everyone benefits from genomic healthcare. Introducing our refreshed podcast identity: Behind the Genes, previously known as The G Word. Join us every fortnight, where we cover everything from the latest in cutting-edge research to real-life stories from those affected by rare conditions and cancer. With thoughtful conversations, we take you behind the science. You can also tune in to our Genomics 101 explainer series which breaks down complex terms in under 10 minutes.
Episodes
Wednesday Aug 03, 2022
Wednesday Aug 03, 2022
"Every disease is a rare disease because it's a disease in you, and it's interacting with you. So, this idea that there are rare diseases, and there are common diseases, [is] kind of nonsense because everything is rare in the context of a given human being."
On today's episode of The G Word, our CEO, Chris Wigley, is joined by Dr Lucy McKay, CEO and founder of Medics for Rare Diseases. Medics for Rare Diseases is a grassroots charity created to change the attitude towards rare diseases and changing the ground for people with rare diseases.
Together, they discuss Lucy's genomics background, delving into her personal relationship to rare disease through her brother and how a conversation at the dinner table with her parents opened the door to many opportunities. They also cover the impact of using terminology such as 'disease' and 'rare' towards patients and in classrooms.