In this episode, we sit down with Professor Paul Lacaze, a leading expert in public health genomics, to discuss the groundbreaking DNA Screen Project, which aims to bring preventive DNA testing to the masses. In a world leading trial,The DNA Screen Project study, by Monash University, offered free genetic testing to 10,000 Australians aged 18 to 40 to identify those at risk of hereditary cancers and heart disease.

Paul explains how a simple at-home saliva sample can provide life-saving insights, particularly for those with DNA variants linked to hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, Lynch syndrome, and familial hypercholesterolemia. These genetic variants affect about 1 in 75 Australians, many are unaware of their increased risk, and current testing is only available to a limited group through restrictive criteria.

DNA Screen aims to change this by building the evidence for population-wide DNA screening as a routine part of preventive healthcare. Participants who test positive for a variant are offered genetic counselling and proven risk-reducing strategies to prevent disease or catch it early. Paul discusses the ethical, legal, and policy challenges involved and why genomic testing will touch every stage of life—from newborns to adults—revolutionising healthcare.

This study could pave the way for Australia to become the first country to offer national DNA screening through a public healthcare system, potentially saving lives and reducing the healthcare burden.

Listen to learn more about the future of personalised healthcare and how your DNA might shape your future health.

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Make DNA Screening for Cancer and Heart Disease Risk Available in Australia, Asks Shelley Craft

Shelley Craft and Amanda Attwood, from The Aging Project Podcast need your support.

We're calling on Mark Butler, Minister for Health and Aged Care, to champion and approve funding for the next stage of the DNA Screen Project at Monash University, to move towards population-wide DNA screening for adult disease prevention.

This trial initiative is providing life-saving genetic testing for hereditary cancers and heart disease, preventing tragedies before they happen and dramatically reducing the financial burden on Australia’s healthcare system.

Led by Professor Paul Lacaze and Dr Jane Tiller, the DNA Screen Project has already demonstrated the life-changing potential in a trial of 10,000 people aged 18 to 40 years at risk of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, Lynch syndrome, and familial hypercholesterolemia.

Genetic variations affect 1 in 75 people, and with genetic testing now available, there is no reason why it should be restricted. Despite the clear benefits, publicly funded testing is currently available only to those who meet restrictive criteria.

Every Australian, of any age, deserves the right to know if they fall within the 2% of the population at high risk, so they can take preventive action to protect their health. We want a population-wide, criteria-free screening program. A national initiative like this would put Australia at the forefront of preventive healthcare, ensuring that every Australian knows their genetic risks and can take steps to protect their future health.

Here’s why this matters:

The DNA screening test can cost as little as $200-$400 per person—an affordable price for a program that has the potential to save lives and reduce long-term healthcare costs.
The cost of cancer care alone to the Australian healthcare system is over $6 BILLION annually
By identifying genetic risks early, we can reduce the number of people needing expensive treatments later, saving taxpayer dollars while preventing disease.

The 10,000-person pilot completed study at Monash University has laid the groundwork for a scalable, nationwide DNA screening program. But to move forward, the project needs government funding to expand beyond the initial trial group and make this life-saving test available to every Australian who wants it, regardless of age or background.

By signing this petition, you are joining a community voice advocating for a future where genetic screening for high risk genetic variations is accessible to everyone, and where preventive healthcare can truly save lives.

We ask Mark Butler and the Australian Government to support funding for the next phase of the DNA Screen Project and allow this innovative program to become a nationwide, population-based screening initiative.

Join us in calling for change. Let’s ensure that every Australian, at every age, has the chance to know their significant genetic risks and take proactive steps to safeguard their health and the health of their families.

The future of genetic testing is HERE - now we just need access to it.

Sign now and make your voice heard—because access to life-saving genetic screening should be a right, not a privilege.

Help us get 10,000 signatures.

Join our movement to live healthier for longer.

Shelley Craft and Amanda Attwood

The Aging Project and You Must Try It , Co-Founders

www.theagingproject.com

Ep. 339 — Genocide, Apartheid, and the Cheapening of Words