Through a simple cheek swab, thousands of Alabamians gained a closer look at their inherited health risks through an Alabama genetic testing program that also examined how their bodies may respond to certain medications.
That information can help patients and their doctors discuss what to watch for and which medicines may work best for them. An increased genetic risk does not mean someone will develop a condition, but it can give them a better understanding of their health.
Southern Research’s Catalyst program brought that opportunity to more than 9,300 participants across all 67 Alabama counties, returning more than 5,600 clinical genetic results. Enrollment closed Sept. 30, but support continues for existing participants.
Launched in October 2024, the program provided free clinical genetic testing to eligible Alabama residents using kits mailed to their homes. Grants from the state of Alabama and the city of Birmingham funded the program.
For participants, the process began with collecting a cheek swab and mailing it back for analysis. They then received information they could discuss with their doctors and families, along with access to genetic counseling to help them understand the results.
The testing examined selected inherited risks for conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and certain cancers. Participants also received information about how their genes may affect their response to more than 70 common medications, including potential side effects or reduced effectiveness.
Bham Now reported on the program’s statewide reach and spoke with Dr. Oliver Hampton, Catalyst’s chief data officer and principal investigator.
“Catalyst set out to answer a simple question: What happens when you make clinical genetic testing free and easy for anyone in Alabama?” Hampton told the outlet.
The at-home kits allowed residents to provide a sample without traveling to a medical center. Beyond mailing those kits, Catalyst attended more than 400 community events, Southern Research reports.
While participants received information about their own health, their involvement also contributed to research aimed at better understanding health needs across Alabama.
“Through Catalyst, each participant receives a clearer picture of their own health: their inherited risks and which medications may work best for them. That’s information they can share with their doctors and their families,” Hampton told the outlet.
“And together, they’ve given Alabama something lasting: a clearer view of our state’s health and where we need to focus to help more Alabamians live longer, healthier lives.”
Southern Research says enrollment closed as its current grant period ended. Enrollment could reopen if additional funding becomes available.
Meanwhile, existing participants can continue receiving program services, including processing of eligible samples, access to results through the participant portal, genetic counseling and participant support.
Enrolled participants who have not returned their samples have 90 days from the date they ordered their tests for their samples to be received and remain eligible for processing.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
