Abstract

MENENDEZ GARCIA, Reinaldo; ORRACA CASTILLO, Miladys; LICOURT OTERO, Deysi  and  TRAVIESO TELLEZ, Anitery. Community genetics as an expression of social relevance of the university. Rev Ciencias Médicas [online]. 2013, vol.17, n.5, pp. 109-122. ISSN 1561-3194.

Introduction: the progress in Genetics field, access to the interior of cell and genetic engineering has allowed the explanation of processes unknown up to the present times. The discovery of human genome generates a revolution in Medicine and Biology, therefore medical doctors and other health professionals should be prepared to carry it out, therefore the first step is to provide them with appropriate knowledge. Objective: to present an analysis of the development of Genetics services in Cuba and to state theoretical bases to review the current curricular design of the subject in Medical studies. Material and methods: documentary analysis was used as an empirical method as well as theoretical methods such as: historical-logical, induction-deduction and analysis-synthesis. Results: preventive medicine in Genetics is applicable by means of a revolutionary approach of Community Genetics, which can modify life-styles and reproductive behaviors by means of orientations that allow the individual or families learn of it, if they desire, the risks of the recurrence of genetic diseases, the potential prevention, and early diagnosis along with medical or social treatment. Higher Medical Education has an essential role in this context, supported on the contemporaneous trends of the university: pertinence, quality, equity and internationalization, concerning its sense of giving response to the demands of the society in general and to the health system in particular; that is why the design of the subject must respond to these objectives. Conclusions: the current syllabus of the subject is not adequately responding to the professional behavior mode relating to diagnosis, prevention and control of genetic diseases based on the principles of Community Genetics. It is necessary to accomplish these principles, for the medical graduates to face up the challenges imposed by the genetic problems in the community.

Keywords : Universidades; Educación médica; Genética; Universities; Medical Education; Genetics.

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