Data security, key to accelerated use of genomics

WASHINGTON, USA: Speaking at the U.S. News and World Report Hospital of Tomorrow forum last week, Amy Caro, VP of health IT programs, Northrop Grumman Corporation said advances in genomics and more widespread use of molecular data will enhance healthcare and improve health outcomes but ensuring the security of personal data is key to its accelerated use.

Genomics is the field of study based on identifying and analyzing a person's complete set of DNA and it is beginning to help the medical community predict, diagnose and treat various conditions, although complete genome-sequencing is not yet widely used.

Caro said genomics and proteomics, which is the study of proteins, their structures and functions, will "usher in a new era of personalized medicine, resulting in more accurate diagnoses and targeted treatments that work more effectively." She also said it could lower costs through increasing preventative care, eliminating unnecessary treatment and reducing negative outcomes such as adverse drug reactions.

As an IT systems integrator, Northrop Grumman will be serving as a "value-added facilitator" between the producers and users of this information. The company's role, Caro said, extends beyond IT integration to "incorporate increasing levels of scientific expertise to analyze and visualize data, manage data and ensure the secure exchange of information."

Northrop Grumman is currently developing a number of genomic and proteomic projects in partnership with universities and other companies, utilizing its IT expertise to enable genetic information to be integrated, analyzed and visualized for clinical purposes across healthcare systems.

"Northrop Grumman's focus on the role of information systems will accelerate the translation of genomic findings to clinical care, with the ultimate goal of helping this nation increase healthcare efficiency, reduce healthcare costs and improve health outcomes for its citizens," Caro said.