Archive · 24 Dec 2025
WHO Raises Concerns Over Genomic Study Inequality
The World Health Organization (WHO) found that most genomic studies are done in rich countries, with less than 5% in poorer ones.
Over 6,500 studies were registered globally, with China, the US, and Italy leading.
Most studies focus on cancer, rare diseases, and metabolic disorders, but very few look at infectious diseases like tuberculosis, HIV, and malaria, which are big health problems in many places.
The WHO says we need more studies that include children, older adults, and people from all over the world to make sure everyone benefits from this research.
They want more investment in genomic research in poorer countries and better alignment with local health needs.
Over 6,500 genomic clinical studies registered globally between 1990 and 2024, with 80% in high-income countries and under 5% in low/middle-income countries.
China, the US, and Italy lead in the number of genomic studies, with India among the top 20.
Cancer, rare diseases, and metabolic disorders account for 75% of genomic studies, while infectious diseases account for just 3%.
Most studies focus on adults aged 18-64, with only 4.6% on children and 3.3% on older adults.
WHO calls for more inclusive, geographically diverse genomic research to address health equity and reflect global population diversity.
- Who
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- What
- Global analysis of genomic clinical studies
- When
- Studies registered between 1990 and 2024
- Where
- Global, with focus on high-income vs. low/middle-income countries
- Why
- To highlight disparities in genomic research and call for more inclusive, geographically diverse studies
- Total Genomic Studies
- 6,500+ registered globally (1990-2024)
- High-Income Countries' Share
- Over 80%
- Low/Middle-Income Countries' Share
- Under 5%
- Top Country by Studies
- China
- India's Study Participation
- 235 studies
- Major Study Focus Areas
- Cancer, rare diseases, metabolic disorders (75%)
- Infectious Disease Studies
- 3%
- Adult Study Focus
- 75% (aged 18-64)
- Children Study Focus
- 4.6%
- Older Adults Study Focus
- 3.3%
