HKGI engaged with the media to share the substantial achievements of the Hong Kong Genome Project (HKGP) since its launch in 2021. As of mid-October 2025, the project has successfully recruited over 52,000 participants and managed more than 9,000TB of genomic data. HKGI has also unveiled its Strategic Plan 2025-30, with a target of collecting 60,000 to 70,000 samples for whole-genome sequencing (WGS).
Transforming Clinical Practice through Whole-Genome Sequencing
Dr Brian Chung, Chief Medical and Scientific Officer of HKGI, noted during the interview that WGS effectively assists clinical teams in identifying the underlying causes of diseases. According to a study published in the prestigious medical journal The Lancet Regional Health – Western Pacific, 77% of participants reported that their sequencing results had a positive impact on their clinical management. Furthermore, HKGI’s "Rapid Genome Sequencing" has successfully completed analysis within two days, providing critical information for emergency clinical diagnoses.
Expert Insights: Precision Medicine Benefiting Patients and Families
Medical experts present at the session elaborated on the clinical applications of genomic medicine:
- Dr Becky Ma (Specialist in Nephrology; Awardee of the HKAM-HKGI
Research Excellence Grants in Genomic Medicine): Shared how genomic medicine optimizes diagnosis, prognosis, and transplant risk assessment for kidney disease. - Dr Derek Lee (Specialist in Cardiology; Awardee of the HKCP-HKGI Overseas Training Scholarship and Training Grant for Excellence in Genomic Medicine): Illustrated how pinpointing genetic roots enables personalized treatment plans and assists families with genetic counseling.
Global Connectivity: Driving Cross-Regional Collaboration
HKGI is actively establishing a genomic database focused on Southern Chinese populations to drive medical innovation and research.
