Personalized prevention, treatments of cancer now accessible through Stanford University's new genetics course

Instrumental research that aims to enhance how we predict, diagnose and design personalized prevention and treatments of cancer is now accessible through Stanford University's latest professional education course, Understanding Cancer at the Genetic Level.

Offered entirely online, the course's goal is to highlight the latest research and advancements in the field of genetics, genomics and cancer biology. "By sharing our findings and providing a 'big picture' understanding of this cutting-edge field, we hope to not only educate other researchers, but anyone who can use the knowledge to make an impact in their work," says Michael Snyder, Professor and Chair of Genetics at Stanford.

Medical sales representatives, technology leaders, strategists and venture capitalists within the science-medical space are some of the professions Snyder hopes the course will reach. "The field of genetics and genomics has undergone an unparalleled revolution in the last five years: our mission is to bring the practice into everyday human health, ideally, through prevention. That starts with awareness, support and interest within the profession."

Stanford's new course exposes participants to the latest tools and practices that help identify genetic risk. While cancer risk can be lowered by changes to lifestyle and diet, even the healthiest person can still get the disease either because of an inherited genetic mutation or simple bad luck. The course also covers the genetic origins of the disease, which can lead to developing better treatments and ultimately a cure.

Available online from anywhere in the world, the course contributes to the Stanford Genetics and Genomics Certificate. Faculty from Stanford's School of Medicine, a world leader in the fields of genetics, genomics and personalized medicine, teach within the program. Guest lecturers provide industry insight.

Other online genetics course topics in the Stanford Genetics and Genomics Certificate program include:

• gene therapy
• agricultural biotechnology
• genetic engineering
• personalized medicine
• pharmacogenomics
• stem cells

Acceptance into the program is ongoing and participants may apply through the Stanford Center for Professional Development.