How Whole Genome Sequencing is Revolutionizing Medicine and Disease Prevention with Dr. Brandon Colby | Ep1

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Feb 21, 2025

Dr. Brandon Colby, a geneticist and CEO of Sequencing, shares his personal journey with a rare genetic disease that inspired his mission in predictive medicine. He discusses the transformative power of whole genome sequencing, emphasizing its shift from reactive to proactive healthcare. Colby highlights the importance of actionable genetic insights and tools like NextGen Disease Screen and HealthScan, which empower individuals to make informed health choices. He also addresses privacy concerns and envisions routine newborn sequencing as a future standard, aiming to end diagnostic odysseys.

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ANECDOTE

Personal Origin Story

Brandon Colby was born with epidermolysis bullosa simplex which caused severe skin blistering triggered by heat and activity.
That lived experience drove him into genetics, medicine, and building tools to prevent diagnostic odysseys.

INSIGHT

Genes + Environment Shape Disease Risk

Most chronic adult diseases arise from many genetic variants plus environmental triggers rather than a single mutation.
Knowing genetic risk lets you modify environment and behaviors across life to reduce total disease risk.

ADVICE

Adopt A Two-Pronged Medical Strategy

Combine reactive medicine with proactive genetic-based prevention to get ahead of disease development.
Use genetic prediction from birth and implement tailored prevention and early detection over a lifetime.

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In this episode, Dr. Jeremy Koenig sits down with Dr. Brandon Colby, a pioneer in predictive medicine and CEO of Sequencing, to explore how whole genome sequencing is transforming healthcare. Dr. Colby shares his personal journey of living with a rare genetic disease, which fueled his mission to revolutionize disease prevention. They discuss the shift from reactive to proactive medicine, the role of genetic insights in personalized health strategies, and how Sequencing’s cutting-edge tools like NextGen Disease Screen and HealthScan empower individuals to take control of their health. From identifying hidden genetic risks to staying ahead of evolving research, this conversation highlights how DNA knowledge is unlocking new possibilities for longevity and well-being.

Episode Highlights:

From Diagnosis to Prevention – Dr. Brandon Colby emphasizes the shift from reactive medicine to predictive and preventive healthcare through whole genome sequencing.
Personal Mission – Dr. Colby’s experience with a rare genetic disease drove him to pioneer solutions that empower individuals with actionable genetic insights.
Whole Genome vs. Traditional Testing – Unlike traditional genetic tests that analyze a limited number of markers, whole genome sequencing provides a complete view of an individual’s genetic risk factors.
Actionable Insights – Genetic testing isn’t just about identifying risks—it enables people to make informed lifestyle choices, modify environmental factors, and improve long-term health outcomes.
NextGen Disease Screen – Sequencing.com’s tool analyzes over 10,000 diseases, offering users a comprehensive look at potential genetic risks in a single report.
HealthScan for Ongoing Updates – Since genetic research evolves rapidly, HealthScan continuously updates users on new findings relevant to their genome, ensuring they stay ahead of potential health risks.
Genetic Testing for Families – Whole genome sequencing is becoming an essential tool for parents, helping identify potential health risks in newborns and enabling proactive care from birth.
The Future of Medicine – With advancements in AI, data analytics, and genetic research, Dr. Colby envisions a future where genome sequencing becomes a standard part of preventive healthcare worldwide.

Connect with Dr. Brandon:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandoncolbymd

https://sequencing.com/

LINKS

https://sequencing.com/