Frequently Asked Questions about BSHG
What are the roles of the BSHG?
Can you give me advice on a genetic condition?
What is the history and structure of BSHG?
What does the BSHG logo represent?
What are the roles of the BSHG?
The BSHG is an independent professional body. It brings together people working in the field, issues statements on important aspects of human genetics, and publishes a newsletter three times a year.
A major three day conference encompassing all aspects of human genetics is organised each year. The Society has a governing Council and a Constitution. It offers travel awards to assist members to attend conferences.
The Society has an interest in the provision of genetic services at a national level, and is asked for reports and advice on important issues. It has an active Public Policy Committee, as well as a key role in the Joint Committee on Medical Genetics.
The Society is a member of the International Federation of Human Genetics Societies.
BSHG is a registered UK charity (Registered Charity 1058821).
Can you give me advice on a genetic condition?
No. Unfortunately, the BSHG cannot provide information on specific genetic conditions. However, follow the links on our For Patients page if you wish to learn more.
If you feel that you need a Genetics Consultation, you should contact your family doctor (GP), who will be able to refer you to your Regional Genetics Service.
What is Human Genetics?
There are two main branches to Human Genetics as a
professional discipline in the UK:
Medical Genetics
Medical Genetics is a medical specialty, which deals with conditions which
are or may be caused by changes in genes. Genetic conditions may run in
families. Examples include Down syndrome, haemophilia and cystic fibrosis.
Members of the BSHG are involved in the front line of delivering services to the public in Regional Genetics Centres throughout the UK.
Regional Genetics Services include the provision of clinical and laboratory facilities, utilising the modern techniques of Cytogenetics, Molecular Genetics, Molecular Cytogenetics, and Biochemical Genetics.
Human Genetic Research
New insights into the causes of genetic conditions and the processes of human
development are being revealed by genetic research on a daily basis. This work
in turn feeds back to the clinical services, allowing the development of new
diagnostic tests and therapeutic strategies.
What is the history and structure of BSHG?
The BSHG was formed in 1996. The founding members were from four existing societies:
Clinical Molecular Genetics Society
Association of Clinical Cytogeneticists
These associations have, and will retain responsibility for, separate interests in relation to career structure, professional qualifications, specialist training, quality control, codes of professional practice and other detailed matters. They have however an overriding common interest in developing human genetics in relation to health care in the United Kingdom, and in representing their professions in public. These organisations continue to exist within the BSHG umbrella, and new members of the BSHG are offered the opportunity of joining one of the constituent societies.
A new associate group has recently been formed for people interested in Cancer Genetics- the CGG. For more information look here.
How can I contact BSHG?
The Society's office is in Birmingham. Mrs Ruth Cole is the Society's administrator.
Clinical Genetics Unit
Birmingham Women's Hospital
BIRMINGHAM B15 2TG
United Kingdom
Tel/Fax: +44 (0) 121 627 2634
email: [email protected]
What does the BSHG logo represent?
| The BSHG logo is a stylised
representation of the four alternative allele combinations in
standard diploid Mendelian inheritance. Imagine the four parental
gamete possibilities above the design, and the four offspring
alternatives below, and all should become clear. This motif represents a synthesis of the disciplines involved in Human Genetics, from molecular genetics and cytogenetics, through to clinical genetics and genetic counselling. A central theme is that of the family, and as such it symbolises the BSHG as an organisation, and the goals which all workers in the field of Human Genetics wish to achieve. The logo was designed by Dr Shane McKee, previous webmaster of this site. |
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