“Shame job”: the exclusion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in genomics and precision medicine
Abstract
The underrepresentation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in genomics and precision medicine research is a critical oversight with profound implications for health equity. This commentary examines the neglect of prospective recruitment of Indigenous participants in genomics research and its impact on the health disparity gap. It argues that this exclusion perpetuates Eurocentric biases in health care, limiting the potential of precision medicine to benefit all populations equitably. Addressing these gaps requires systemic changes that prioritise Indigenous leadership, culturally safe methodologies, and meaningful community engagement. By embedding Indigenous governance and perspectives into genomics research, we can ensure that precision medicine serves as a tool for reducing health disparities, rather than perpetuating them.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Indigenous Health
Education
and Rights
Race
Genetics
and Society
Ethics in Clinical Research
Publication details
- Journal / source
- AlterNative An International Journal of Indigenous Peoples
- Volume
- 22
- Issue
- 2
- Pages
- 562–566
- Publication date
- 14 January 2026
- Language
- EN