KimForest Enterprise Co. Ltd., a manufacturer of genetic testing instruments and services, announced on the 10th that, in order to address the healthcare needs of both healthy and sub-healthy populations, its wholly-owned subsidiary, Essense AI, has tailored health management solutions for the public using whole-genome sequencing data and generative artificial intelligence (AI) technology. In the future, Essense AI will also collaborate with international giants like Illumina to jointly develop AI-powered whole-genome health management, aiming to transform Taiwan into an "Island of Health."
To educate various sectors on the role AI can play in whole-genome testing, KimForest partnered with the Taiwan Society of Nutrigenetics and Functional Medicine, the Taiwan Precision Preventive Medicine Association, Illumina, and Essense AI to hold the "2024 Summit on Clinical and Health Applications of Whole Genomics and Metabolism." Several experts shared insights into the clinical applications of whole-genome sequencing, examples of precision medicine and health management utilizing AI, as well as the medical applications of multimodal artificial intelligence and whole-genome sequencing-digital twins. The forum also covered hot topics such as the clinical and health applications of metabolism.
KimForest stated that Taiwan will provide health insurance subsidies for next-generation genetic testing for cancer patients this year, further promoting precision medicine. Additionally, as Taiwan transitions into an ultra-aging society, with the proportion of the population aged 65 and over expected to reach 20% by 2025, 30.1% by 2039, and even 43.7% by 2070, medical expenses are projected to increase significantly. Whole-genome testing can effectively reduce healthcare costs and enhance the efficiency of health insurance reimbursements.
Chao-hsi Huang, General Manager of Essense AI, pointed out that with the establishment of the complete human genome atlas and the leapfrog progress in computer algorithm capabilities, coupled with the increasing maturity and popularity of generative AI applications, the era of AI in genetic testing and personalized health management has dawned. Through the integration of databases from KimForest Group, the medical community, and public and private health management and care institutions, a personalized rapid whole-genome testing system can be established, providing the public with more scientific, precise, and personalized health management services to meet the needs of Taiwan's ultra-aging society.
Wen-ming Yang, General Manager of KimForest, stated that the company's goal is to combine top talents and technology to create comprehensive genetic testing services and solutions. Currently, the company has one of the few testing laboratories in Taiwan and the United States to obtain the highest certifications, including LTDs, CLIA, and CAP. The Dry Lab for data analysis provides a solid technical foundation. In addition to next-generation genetic testing instruments, KimForest plans to collaborate with Essense AI and relevant institutions in the medical community and public and private sectors, as well as international giants like Illumina, to jointly develop AI-powered whole-genome health management, making Taiwan an "Island of Health."
