| ‘While molecular biomarkers such as genetics have proved valuable in the management of many diseases, the dynamic information provided by many physiological biomarkers will complement, enhance and provide context to genetic information. The Physiology Passport is a unique opportunity to integrate varied and diverse biomarkers, defined characteristics that indicate biological processes in health and disease, to support personalised prevention.’ |  Dr Laura Blackburn, Head of Science, PHG Foundation |
Integrating the full range of a person’s physiological health information to build a personalised physiology passport could be key to creating resilient robust healthcare systems in the UK that are sustainable in the longterm, argues a new report from The Physiological Society and PHG Foundation.
Physiology Passport: Putting personalised prevention at the heart of resilient health systems makes recommendations to improve health outcomes, reduce healthcare system pressures, and help individuals lead healthier lives by working to:
- Detect health changes early by identifying deviations from an individual’s normal baseline.
- Empower individuals to manage their own health through personalised insights and preventive strategies.
- Support healthcare providers in making informed, tailored decisions for treatment and prevention.
- Enable proactive care by focusing on preventing illness rather than just treating diseases.
The Physiology Passport would optimise the use of current and commonly collected parameters such as blood pressure, weight, cholesterol and blood sugar levels with a focus on more consistent collection of these in a variety of clinical settings (e.g. pharmacies). This approach would use commonly available tools already approved for clinical use, to ensure the quality and standardisation of data.
It would also support the establishment of fair, equitable and consistent practices in building a foundation of information that can support a collaborative approach to personalised prevention between people and healthcare providers.
Dariel Burdass, Chief Executive of The Physiological Society, said ‘The proposed Physiology Passport would put an individual’s physiological data at the heart of the health system, enabling earlier detection, personalised care, and equitable access to prevention strategies. Tackling the increased burden of treating non-communicable diseases, including heart disease, stroke, cancer and diabetes will reduce long-term costs on the NHS. By integrating and building on this approach into existing systems, we can not only alleviate strain on the NHS but also empower individuals to take control of their health and improve outcomes across the UK.’
Physiology Passport: Putting personalised prevention at the heart of resilient health systems was launched in the Houses of Parliament Tuesday 14 January 2025 and will contribute to the public consultation Change NHS: help build a health service fit for the future, to shape UK Government’s policy plan for disease prevention and early detection.