Health data, like results from a genetic test, help us better understand diseases like cancer. We can use health data to improve diagnosis, treatment, and overall patient care. That’s why many patients choose to share their health data with researchers. 

The Global Alliance for Genomics and Health (GA4GH) works to make secure data sharing as easy as possible.  We build tools that let global researchers access and study health data related to DNA for research aimed at improving human health, including cancer care.

All the DNA in your body makes up a genome. The genome works like a guide for your body’s cells to run well. Researchers and doctors study genomes to learn about human health. Thanks to new technology, tens of millions of people will get their genome sequenced in the next five years. To improve healthcare, global researchers need to search, share and study this large amount of data securely. 

Right now, the world’s genomic data is messy and hidden, stored in different ways and places. This means the benefits of genomic medicine will take much longer to reach patients, including those with cancer. GA4GH wants to speed things up.

Imagine if it were easy to predict your response to a cancer drug or find people with your same cancer-causing genetic mutation. Shared standard data makes this future possible, and the tools GA4GH builds will help us get there.

Since 2013, GA4GH has tackled data sharing challenges by writing guidelines and computer programs that make genomic and other health data easier to use. Our tools keep data safe and always respect human rights.

To unlock the power of the human genome, we need to share data nonstop between researchers, doctors and patients around the world. Free GA4GH products help make that happen. For example, our products help computers better compare patient symptoms and give tips for writing clear consent forms needed for research studies.

GA4GH unites global experts in healthcare, research, patient support and information technology from more than 500 organizations. Together, we turn the promise of genomic medicine into better cancer care and human health.