Page 135 - ΝΑΥΤΙΚΑ ΧΡΟΝΙΚΑ - ΜΑΙΟΣ 2023

University has been at the forefront of recent “The significant progress we have made in Sponsored by
efforts to elucidate the genetic and biologi- caring for our physical health in recent decades
cal changes that cause many major mental ill- is apparent, but just as clear is the fact that
nesses. The SNF Center for Precision Psychiatry we have left behind our mental health,” said
& Mental Health will build upon and expand this SNF Co-President Andreas Dracopoulos. “All
knowledge by accumulating massive datasets of us at SNF are proud to support the doctors,
of genomic sequences and longitudinal medical scientists, and mental health professionals at
records. At the same time, by harnessing inter- Columbia in bringing together deep exper-
disciplinary expertise from biologists to clini- tise with an equally deep sense of humanity
cians, the center will enable the rapid advent, to address one of the most critical issues of
from bench to bedside, of new therapeutic and our time.”
prevention approaches based upon defined eti- The collaboration between Columbia and SNF
ologies shared by distinct subgroups of patients. arose from a joint vision for helping to reduce
“The insights provided by genomics and preci- the individual and societal toll of mental illness
sion medicine are proving of tremendous value and to combat social inequality, stigma, and
in improving people’s health and lives,” said discrimination in mental health care. The eco-
Columbia University President Lee C. Bollinger. system of knowledge and practice at Columbia
“Through this new center, our researchers will University brings together research and clinical
meet an urgent human need by harnessing pre- services and connects the public and private
cision medicine to promote mental health for all. sectors. By driving innovation in mental health
We are enormously grateful to the Stavros Niar- research and sharing advances as widely as
chos Foundation for joining Columbia in meeting possible, Columbia and SNF will work to help
this profound scientific and humanitarian chal- ensure that improved treatments are equally
lenge.” available to everyone.

135