Alabama genetic program delivers 5,600 results as enrollment window shuts

Southern Research ended its free genetic testing initiative for Alabamians on Sept. 30, capping a two-year effort that reached every county in the state. The Catalyst program has now distributed kits to more than 9,300 people and processed enough samples to return over 5,600 clinical results.

The initiative launched in October 2024 with funding from the state of Alabama and the city of Birmingham. Participants received mailed kits containing instructions for a cheek swab. They collected the sample at home and sent it back for analysis, eliminating the need for travel to medical centers. The program also maintained a presence in local communities, with staff attending more than 400 events to promote the testing.

Dr. Oliver Hampton, the program’s chief data officer and principal investigator, framed the project as a test of accessibility. “Catalyst set out to answer a simple question: What happens when you make clinical genetic testing free and easy for anyone in Alabama?” he told Bham Now. The design aimed to remove logistical barriers so that residents could obtain data on their inherited health risks without navigating complex healthcare logistics.

The testing focused on specific inherited risks for conditions including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. It also analyzed how participants’ genes might affect their response to more than 70 common medications. This data included potential side effects or reduced effectiveness for specific drugs. Hampton noted that the information allows patients to have more precise conversations with their doctors and family members.

“Through Catalyst, each participant receives a clearer picture of their own health: their inherited risks and which medications may work best for them. That’s information they can share with their doctors and their families,” Hampton said. He added that the collective data provides a broader view of the state’s health needs, helping identify where resources are needed most.

Enrollment is now paused as the current grant period expires. Southern Research says it may reopen registration if additional funding becomes available. Current participants continue to receive support, including genetic counseling and access to their results through a digital portal. Those who ordered kits but have not yet returned samples have 90 days from their order date to submit the material and remain eligible for processing.