O u r  V i s i o n

Improved health outcomes and enhanced
quality of life for the people of
Michigan through appropriate use of genetic
information, technology and services

The Genomics Unit is a multi-faceted program that provides assessment, policy development, and assurance related to birth defects, genetic disorders, and the use of genomics* in public health programs. Our mission is to:

• Coordinate educational activities that increase genetic literacy;

• Facilitate early identification and treatment of individuals with birth defects, heritable disorders and genetic susceptibilities throughout the life cycle; and

• Foster collaboration to integrate advances in genomic science throughout public health and other systems of care

 The program is responsible for implementing the  State Genetics Plan in collaboration with local, state and national partners. It also maintains a statewide network of genetic diagnosis and counseling services. The Genetics Resource Center includes directories of genetic service providers, state genetic support groups, and event calendar along with information on birth defects prevention, resources for families, and the role of family history in complex chronic diseases. (see full program  overview )

What's New?
Family History and Your Health, Spring 2008   (newsletter)
Diabetes, Genetics and Genomics   (RD and RN training with contact hours)
Folic Acid in the Prevention of NTDs   (professional training)  

Read more about…

Birth Defects Prevention and Follow-up

Folic Acid Outreach/Multivitamin Distribution

Genetics to Genomics Curriculum for Teachers

Genomics and Chronic Disease

Michigan Cancer Genetics Alliance

Region 4 Genetics Collaborative

Sudden Cardiac Death of the Young

See publications and presentations…

View documents and resource materials:

Babies with Birth Defects: Referral Guide for Michigan Hospitals

Informed Consent for Genetic Testing

Birth Defects and Genetic Conditions: Resources for Michigan Families and Professionals ( Toolkit)

Look and Feel Your Best with Folic Acid

Birth Defects Prevention Month 2008 

Michigan Genetic Counseling Services

Family History and Your
Health Newsletters

  The Michigan Monitor  (Birth Defects Newsletter)

Family History Fact Cards

  Preventing Birth Defects

Family History Poster

Resources for Families of Infants and Toddlers with Special Health Needs

Genetic Syndrome Fact Sheets

Special Care for Special Kids:
Guide for Michigan Families

Genetics and Young Children
with Hearing Loss

State Genetics Plan Executive Summary

Guide to Genetics Referral

2009 Genomics BRFS Proposal on Direct to Consumer Marketing of Whole Genome Scans