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BACKGROUND INFORMATION

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DNA (the Genome) is the genetic code of life in microbes, plants, animals and humans.

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We all start life as a single cell in our mother’s womb. This cell contains the genetic material (DNA) that provides instructions how to make copies of itself and divide into new cells to build, develop, maintain and regenerate the organs in our body throughout all life stages. The possibility of developing normally and living healthily depends on the capacity to make new and accurate copies of DNA and to repair DNA accurately when it is damaged.

 

Poor nutrition, excessive exposure to toxic chemicals, radiation and psychological stress increase damage to our DNA. When DNA is damaged, cells stop functioning properly and lose their ability to regenerate normally. This leads to infertility, developmental abnormalities, increased risk of cancer and accelerated aging of vital organs such as the brain and heart.

 

In 2003 Prof Michael Fenech, the founder of  Genome Health Foundation, proposed the establishment of ‘Genome Health Clinics’ as a personalized disease-prevention strategy based on the diagnosis of DNA damage and nutritional treatment to improve DNA integrity.

 

The Genome Health Foundation aims to do the following:

•Support and do research on how to measure DNA damage and prevent it

•Educate the general public about the importance of taking care of our DNA

•Create environments and life-styles that protect and improve our Genome Health

•Translate the Genome Health Clinic concept into practice

 

Reference: Fenech M, Nutrition Research Reviews (2003), 16, 109–122