Hong Kong Genome Institute and Global Leaders Co-organise Landmark Healthcare Event 'International Genomic Medicine Symposium'
HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 25 June 2025 - Genomic medicine is one of the most promising fields in today's healthcare landscape, enabling precise diagnoses, personalised treatment plans, and breakthroughs in drug development that bring new hope to patients around the world. The Hong Kong Genome Institute (HKGI) will join forces with world-renowned authorities to host the International Genomic Medicine Symposium (Symposium) on 17 November 2025 (Monday). This landmark event will highlight Hong Kong's unique strengths in fostering exchange and cooperation with experts worldwide in medical research and innovation, and accelerate the application of genomic medicine to pave the way for a healthier future for all.
The Symposium marks HKGI's first collaboration with Rare Diseases International (RDI) and The Lancet Commission on Rare Diseases (LCRD), which is jointly led by RDI and The Lancet, the world's most influential medical journal. The event will welcome local and international genomics leaders from over 20 countries and regions, including clinicians, scientists, and researchers from Mainland China, Europe, North and South America, and Australia.
Distinguished speakers at the Symposium will focus on key global topics such as clinical genetics, rare diseases, genomic medicine, AI, data sharing, as well as ethical and legal matters involved, facilitating in-depth discussions on the latest groundbreaking research and clinical insights. Specifically, thematic sessions will be dedicated to experience sharing by experts from Mainland China and Hong Kong. By showcasing case studies from the Hong Kong Genome Project, these exchanges will help demonstrate practical applications of personalised medicine in managing common disorders such as cardiomyopathy and kidney disease. Developments in rare diseases in Mainland China and drug development opportunities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area will also be covered, opening doors of opportunity for regional collaboration and innovation.
Dr Lo Su-vui, Chief Executive Officer of HKGI said, 'With the strong support from the Health Bureau of the Hong Kong SAR Government, HKGI has been working closely with the Department of Health, Hospital Authority, medical schools of local universities and various stakeholders to accelerate the development of genomic medicine in Hong Kong. In just a few years, the Institute has achieved significant milestones in medical research, clinical applications, and international collaborations. We have successfully recruited over 47,000 participants for the Hong Kong Genome Project, continuously expanding our genome database featuring the Southern Chinese population. We have also accumulated clinical application cases and established synergistic collaborative research platforms. These achievements highlight Hong Kong's strong capabilities and advantages in genomic medicine, laying a solid foundation for further collaboration with internationally recognised authorities.'
Dr Lo continued, 'We are greatly honoured to partner with RDI and LCRD to organise this prestigious global event. Genomic medicine is the future of medicine with wide-ranging applications, spanning from common to rare diseases, from clinical diagnosis and personalised treatment to disease prevention and health management. This Symposium will undoubtedly serve as a critical platform for healthcare experts, academics, and researchers from around the world to exchange knowledge, fostering collaboration, and driving medical innovation, ultimately bringing immense benefits to patients in Hong Kong, Asia and beyond.'
The one-day Symposium is expected to attract nearly 300 industry professionals. Following the Symposium, the LCRD will hold its annual meeting in Hong Kong on 18-19 November to further discuss insights and deepen cross-regional collaboration. This will be the first time for the LCRD to host its annual meeting in Asia, highlighting Hong Kong's distinctive position in leading international medical innovation.
For information about the Symposium programme and speakers, please refer to the appendix. For enquiries about the Symposium, please contact HKGI (symposium@genomics.org.hk) or RDI-LCRD (lcrd@rarediseasesint.org).
Enquiry
Hong Kong Genome Institute
Website: www.hkgp.org
Rare Disease International
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Sun
a day ago
- The Sun
CUHK Faculty of Social Science: Fostering Global Excellence in Social Impact and Innovation
HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 26 June 2025 - In a landmark achievement for Hong Kong's higher education sector, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) has surpassed its previous performance in the newly released QS World University Rankings 2026, climbing to 32nd position globally. This institutional milestone is partially contributed by the outstanding performance of CUHK's Faculty of Social Science, which continues to excel in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, with Communication & Media Studies ranking 12th globally, Sociology at 18th, and Geography at 19th position. Other notable achievements include Psychology at 32nd, Architecture/Built Environment at 35th, and Economics & Econometrics at 37th, while Social Sciences & Management ranks 47th worldwide. Comprising three schools and five departments, CUHK's Faculty of Social Science offers cutting-edge taught and research postgraduate programmes across various disciplines, including Architecture, Economics, Geography and Resource Management, Governance and Policy Science, Journalism and Communication, Psychology, Social Work, and Sociology. This interdisciplinary approach, combined with a rich intellectual and cultural environment, empowers students to address complex social challenges and become engaged global thought leaders. Breaking New Ground in Research Excellence The Faculty's research impact is exemplified by distinguished scholars like Professor Mei-Po KWAN, Choh-Ming Li Professor of Geography and Resource Management. Professor Kwan's groundbreaking work in geographic information science and environmental health has revolutionised the understanding of human mobility and urban health issues. Her work has inspired much new mobility-based research in public health, sociology, health geography, and urban studies on a wide range of topics, including the health impacts of individual exposure to green space, air pollution, noise, traffic congestion, social environments, and ethnic/racial segregation. As a recipient of numerous prestigious global honours, including two Lifetime Achievement Awards (one from the International Geographical Union and the other from the International Association of Chinese Professionals in Geographic Information Sciences) and the James R. Anderson Medal of Honor in Applied Geography, Professor Kwan's contributions continue to shape the field. Adding to the Faculty's achievements, Professor Edward NG, Yao Ling Sun Professor of Architecture, recently became the first architect-designer and Hong Kong scholar to receive the prestigious Luke Howard Award from the International Association for Urban Climate (IAUC). A leading public advocate for climate-responsive architecture design, Professor Ng's work bridges urban climate science, urban design and planning practice, and has contributed to the climate-responsive policies across Hong Kong and China. His 'One University One Village' project also won the Gold Award in the Humanitarian category and the distinguished title of Emerging Practice of the Year Grand Prix Winner at the World Architecture News (WAN) Awards 2024 for its innovative rural reconstruction model, which integrates sustainable design, cultural preservation, and community empowerment. Nurturing Global Talent The Faculty's commitment to excellence is also reflected in the experiences of students like Yvan Ysmael Tobias YONAHA, a Filipino PhD candidate in Sociology and a Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) awardee. 'CUHK's comprehensive training in both quantitative and qualitative research has shaped me into a holistic practitioner and researcher,' shares Yvan. His experience highlights the Faculty's success in creating an enabling learning environment that combines rigorous academic training with global perspective. CUHK's Faculty of Social Science continues to pursue excellence in scholarship, discovery and innovation to create far-reaching social impact. For more information about the postgraduate opportunities at CUHK's Faculty of Social Science, visit Founded in 1963, CUHK combines tradition with innovation in teaching and research, maintaining strong global partnerships to address real-world challenges. Yvan Ysmael Tobias YONAHA (centre in the left photo) credited CUHK's robust research training and incredible peer and faculty support network for playing a pivotal role in his growth as a researcher
The Sun
2 days ago
- The Sun
Hong Kong Genome Institute and Global Leaders Co-organise Landmark Healthcare Event 'International Genomic Medicine Symposium'
HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 25 June 2025 - Genomic medicine is one of the most promising fields in today's healthcare landscape, enabling precise diagnoses, personalised treatment plans, and breakthroughs in drug development that bring new hope to patients around the world. The Hong Kong Genome Institute (HKGI) will join forces with world-renowned authorities to host the International Genomic Medicine Symposium (Symposium) on 17 November 2025 (Monday). This landmark event will highlight Hong Kong's unique strengths in fostering exchange and cooperation with experts worldwide in medical research and innovation, and accelerate the application of genomic medicine to pave the way for a healthier future for all. The Symposium marks HKGI's first collaboration with Rare Diseases International (RDI) and The Lancet Commission on Rare Diseases (LCRD), which is jointly led by RDI and The Lancet, the world's most influential medical journal. The event will welcome local and international genomics leaders from over 20 countries and regions, including clinicians, scientists, and researchers from Mainland China, Europe, North and South America, and Australia. Distinguished speakers at the Symposium will focus on key global topics such as clinical genetics, rare diseases, genomic medicine, AI, data sharing, as well as ethical and legal matters involved, facilitating in-depth discussions on the latest groundbreaking research and clinical insights. Specifically, thematic sessions will be dedicated to experience sharing by experts from Mainland China and Hong Kong. By showcasing case studies from the Hong Kong Genome Project, these exchanges will help demonstrate practical applications of personalised medicine in managing common disorders such as cardiomyopathy and kidney disease. Developments in rare diseases in Mainland China and drug development opportunities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area will also be covered, opening doors of opportunity for regional collaboration and innovation. Dr Lo Su-vui, Chief Executive Officer of HKGI said, 'With the strong support from the Health Bureau of the Hong Kong SAR Government, HKGI has been working closely with the Department of Health, Hospital Authority, medical schools of local universities and various stakeholders to accelerate the development of genomic medicine in Hong Kong. In just a few years, the Institute has achieved significant milestones in medical research, clinical applications, and international collaborations. We have successfully recruited over 47,000 participants for the Hong Kong Genome Project, continuously expanding our genome database featuring the Southern Chinese population. We have also accumulated clinical application cases and established synergistic collaborative research platforms. These achievements highlight Hong Kong's strong capabilities and advantages in genomic medicine, laying a solid foundation for further collaboration with internationally recognised authorities.' Dr Lo continued, 'We are greatly honoured to partner with RDI and LCRD to organise this prestigious global event. Genomic medicine is the future of medicine with wide-ranging applications, spanning from common to rare diseases, from clinical diagnosis and personalised treatment to disease prevention and health management. This Symposium will undoubtedly serve as a critical platform for healthcare experts, academics, and researchers from around the world to exchange knowledge, fostering collaboration, and driving medical innovation, ultimately bringing immense benefits to patients in Hong Kong, Asia and beyond.' The one-day Symposium is expected to attract nearly 300 industry professionals. Following the Symposium, the LCRD will hold its annual meeting in Hong Kong on 18-19 November to further discuss insights and deepen cross-regional collaboration. This will be the first time for the LCRD to host its annual meeting in Asia, highlighting Hong Kong's distinctive position in leading international medical innovation. For information about the Symposium programme and speakers, please refer to the appendix. For enquiries about the Symposium, please contact HKGI (symposium@ or RDI-LCRD (lcrd@ Enquiry Hong Kong Genome Institute Website: Rare Disease International
The Sun
5 days ago
- The Sun
Key Findings from the 'Hong Kong Vitiligo Patients and Caregivers Survey' Released for 'World Vitiligo Day'
Patients Demonstrate Significant Knowledge Gaps in Treatment Options, Leading to Lost Hope and Treatment Discontinuation Over 70% of Vitiligo Patients Desire Skin Repigmentation; New Topical Therapy Introduced in Hong Kong Shows Encouraging Results HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 22 June 2025 - In observance of World Vitiligo Day (June 25), Hong Kong Vitiligo Support Group has released findings from its latest 'Hong Kong Vitiligo Patients and Caregivers Survey.' The study reveals critical gaps in treatment knowledge, with over 80% of respondents demonstrating limited understanding of available therapies and their efficacy. More than 70% of patients hoped therapy could partially or fully restore their original skin pigmentation, yet many reported disappointing outcomes with existing treatments, leading to loss of confidence and treatment discontinuation. Dr. Chan Yung, a specialist in dermatology, noted that with advancing insights into vitiligo pathogenesis, novel therapy has recently been introduced in Hong Kong. Clinical studies confirm its repigmentation potential, encouraging patients to consult specialists for personalized treatment plans. In Hong Kong, vitiligo affects approximately 1% of the population, with an estimated 70,000 individuals living with the condition. In May 2025, Hong Kong Vitiligo Support Group successfully surveyed 61 patients or their primary caregivers to identify key challenges in disease management. Key findings as follows: 1. Critical Knowledge Deficits in Treatment Understanding · 80% lack understanding of treatment options · 78% unfamiliar with medication efficacy · 84% uncertain about which specialist to consult 2. Disparity Between Treatment Expectations and Outcomes · 74% of respondents expressed a desire for full or partial skin repigmentation, yet among the 48 treated patients, none achieved complete repigmentation, and only 8% reported partial improvement · 67% perceived treatments as completely ineffective 3. Treatment Discontinuation Due to Lost Confidence · 43% are not receiving any active treatment at present · Barriers included: high private healthcare costs and long public-sector wait times (95%), and perceived futility of therapy (75%) Vitiligo is classified as segmental (SV) or non-segmental (NSV), with 90% of cases being NSV—a subtype with higher progression risk and greater therapeutic difficulty. Traditional options (e.g., topical corticosteroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors, phototherapy) often yield variable results, with limitations such as: · Corticosteroids: Risk of skin atrophy, telangiectasia; unsuitable for long-term use · Phototherapy: Requires 3–6 months (or longer) of 2–3 weekly sessions, with potential sunburn and skin cancer risks · Non-steroidal topicals: Often only slow progression rather than induce repigmentation Over 70% of Vitiligo Patients Seek Skin Repigmentation - New Topical Treatment Introduced in Hong Kong Offers Hope Dr. Chan Yung stated that targeted therapies like topical JAK inhibitors represent a breakthrough in vitiligo treatment. 'Topical JAK inhibitors are non-steroidal medications with demonstrated efficacy and safety profiles, making them a viable long-term treatment option for patients,' he explained. While the exact etiology of vitiligo remains unclear, current evidence suggests autoimmune-mediated attack on melanocytes plays a key pathogenic role, resulting in depigmented lesions. Non-steroidal Topical JAK inhibitors work by modulating the aberrant immune signaling responsible for melanocyte attack, enabling gradual repigmentation of affected areas. Ruxolitinib cream, the first FDA-approved non-steroidal topical JAK inhibitor for localized treatment of non-segmental vitiligo in patients aged 12 years and above, has recently become available in Hong Kong. Clinical trials show: · Approximately 30% of patients achieved ≥75% improvement in Facial Vitiligo Area Scoring Index (F-VASI) after 24 weeks of treatment; · 50% of patients showed ≥50% improvement; · Extension to 52 weeks of treatment resulted in >50% of patients attaining ≥75% improvement⁷ Ms. Amy Wong, a Registered Social Worker at Hong Kong Vitiligo Support Group noted that many vitiligo patients and caregivers seeking assistance express confusion about treatment options and medication efficacy. 'Many patients spend over a year just obtaining a definitive diagnosis,' she explained. 'In their search for solutions, patients often invest substantial resources in various cosmetic packages and alternative therapies, only to experience significant discrepancies between desired and actual outcomes. This frequently leads to disillusionment, loss of hope for effective treatment, and even emotional distress.' 'However,' Ms. Wong emphasized, 'with medical advancements, vitiligo is no longer considered untreatable. Repigmentation is now achievable, and we strongly encourage patients to seek professional medical consultation at the earliest opportunity.' Conclusion and Recommendations The survey reveals significant gaps in patients' understanding of vitiligo treatments and their mechanisms, leaving many uncertain about where to begin treatment. Over 80% of respondents expressed desire for patient support in medication access and resource referrals. Accordingly, Dr. Chan Yung and Ms. Amy Wong, propose the following recommendations: 1. Public Education Seminars Conduct lectures and workshops to help patients and caregivers understand that vitiligo requires long-term management, with visible results often taking extended periods to manifest. These initiatives should also educate participants about various treatment modalities, particularly newly available options like non-steroidal topical JAK inhibitors, enabling informed discussions with healthcare providers about appropriate treatment plans. 2. Medication Support and Resource Referral Services Given that vitiligo necessitates prolonged treatment, and considering that many patients find private care cost-prohibitive while public service wait times are excessively long, we recommend establishing medication support and resource referral services to facilitate timely access to proper treatment. Hong Kong Vitiligo Support Group is currently implementing a 'Vitiligo Patient Support Program,' offering free psychological counseling, medication assistance, and resource referral services. Interested individuals may contact Hong Kong Vitiligo Support Group for details. Case Study Mr. Chan (pseudonym), 58, first developed symptoms thirty years ago with a small depigmented spot on his neck that subsequently spread to his neck, waist, wrists, and thighs. At diagnosis, his physician prescribed topical corticosteroids but stated vitiligo was essentially 'incurable.' Mr. Chan subsequently pursued numerous alternative treatments including UV light therapy, traditional Chinese medicine, electroacupuncture, topical shampoo applications, and cosmetic packages - exhausting savings and liquidating his stocks - all without achieving satisfactory repigmentation. After years of unsuccessful treatment attempts, he discontinued treatment until being referred to the Hong Kong Vitiligo Support Group. Through their seminars and 'Vitiligo Patient Support Program', he learned about modern treatment advances and, with medication assistance, has begun new therapy with renewed hope for repigmentation. 'My greatest wish is to wear crew-neck shirts again,' Mr. Chan shared. 'Since developing vitiligo, I've only worn high-collared shirts to conceal neck patches and haven't gone swimming in thirty years.' He looks forward to regaining sartorial freedom following successful repigmentation.
