Personalized medicine, also referred to as precision medicine, uses an individual's genetic makeup and molecular profiling to predict disease risk, disease progression, and treatment response. With advances in technologies like genomic sequencing and computational analysis, scientists can now map an individual's whole genome sequence in a matter of days at low cost. This wealth of genetic information is helping revolutionize how diseases are diagnosed and treated. Personalized Medicine aims to tailor medical management and therapeutics to the individual characteristics of each patient.

Advances in Genomic Sequencing
The rapid decline in the costs of whole genome sequencing over the past decade has been truly transformational. In 2001, it cost over $100 million to sequence the first human genome as part of the Human Genome Project. Today, the cost of whole genome sequencing has dropped to just a few thousand dollars and continues to decrease annually. Several companies now offer clinically validated whole genome sequencing services for under $1,000. These advances have made comprehensive genomic profiling feasible and economical for use in clinical care. The insights gleaned from an individual's complete genomic sequence enable far more precise disease diagnoses and personalized treatment strategies. Genomic sequencing is helping uncover the root molecular causes behind many diseases and enhancing precision in disease prognosis and management.

Advances in genomic sequencing, analytics and tailored therapies are ushering in the era of personalized medicine. Molecular profiling revolutionizes disease diagnostics, risk prediction, preventive strategies, and optimal treatment selection. Numerous challenges lie ahead but with responsible innovation and implementation, personalized healthcare holds immense potential to enhance outcomes, quality and affordability of medical care on a global scale. It signifies a true paradigm shift towards predictive, preventive and participatory models of individualized healthcare management.

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