Event details

Novel non-invasive prenatal tests using a blood sample from the mother can determine the sex and health of the growing baby from as early as 7 weeks gestation. These tests have profound implications for the choices available to women at early stages of pregnancy. These technologies are likely to be adopted on a global basis, but their implications for the developing world, particularly Asia, have been largely unexplored.

Held on International Women’s Day, this free seminar is hosted in partnership with the Humanitarian Centre as part of their Global Health Year. 

There will be perspectives from two expert speakers and an opportunity for questions and group discussion, to be followed by a networking drinks reception.

Speakers

The first speaker will be Alison Hall, Senior Policy Adviser at the independent health and genomics think-tank the PHG Foundation, who will outline the technologies, their potential applications and associated ethical, legal and social implications.

The second speaker will be Dr Margaret Sleeboom-Faulkner, Reader in Anthropology from the University of Sussex, who will speak on birth preferences in Asian countries. Margaret’s research spans reproductive choices and novel technologies in Asia, and she will be reflecting on her experiences in China, India and Japan. 

Who should attend?

All those with an interest in biomedical innovation and translation, prenatal testing technologies and their clinical and social implications, and the impact of technological developments in low and middle income countries.

Registration

The seminar and refreshments are free, but advance registration is required to secure a place.  Please note that there is no parking at Hughes Hall.

Future seminars

The PHG Foundation is celebrating its fifteenth anniversary with a series of Cambridge events based around their mission of making science work for health. Leading up to a major conference on translating genomics to be held on 4^th December 2012, is a special programme of free seminars examining different issues around the clinical translation of emerging technologies.

31 May 2012               Epigenetics

5 July 2012                 Implementing genomics in the NHS

General information

The PHG Foundation is an independent, non-profit organisation based in Cambridge, UK, with the mission making science work for health. We identify the best opportunities for 21st century genomic and biomedical science to improve health and tackle disease in ways that are rapid and effective, equitable and responsible. 

The Humanitarian Centre is a Cambridge-based network for international relief and development. The Cambridge Global Health Year brings together individuals and organisations - from across disciplines, sectors, and countries - to explore Cambridge's contribution to pressing global health issues.