Genomics in Focus webinar: Alzheimer disease

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The HETI Centre for Genetics Education are pleased to present the first webinar of the 2026 Genomics in Focus series.

This series aims to provide practical guidance for clinicians interested in genomics and mainstreaming (when genetic testing is ordered by health professionals outside of referral to a genetics service). Dementia, including Alzheimer disease is now the leading cause of death in Australia according to the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics (2024), Causes of Death, Australia report.

Alzheimer disease is most common in people over the age of 65 years and accounts for 60-80% of dementia diagnoses. Early onset Alzheimer disease is diagnosed under the age of 65 years (usually 35-55 years) and is more likely to be caused by variants in one of three known genes. New treatments to slow the progression of Alzheimer disease have been approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration. Genetic testing can identify patients who have an increased chance of severe side effects to these medications. Neurologists and geriatricians can now order genomic testing to guide treatment decisions in Alzheimer Disease.

Join geriatrician Associate Professor Paul Yates and neurologist Associate Professor Emma Devenney to learn more about:

• Relevance of genetic testing for Alzheimer disease
• Types of genetic tests available and possible results
• Patients who may benefit and Medicare eligibility
• Practicalities of ordering tests
• Consent and other considerations.

This webinar is aimed at geriatricians and neurologists who would like to learn more about genomic testing in Alzheimer disease. The webinar would also be beneficial for any healthcare professionals working with patients with Alzheimer disease. This webinar is open to those working within NSW Health as well as external participants.

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