The success of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) in identifying replicating associations has greatly contributed to understanding of the genetic aetiology of complex diseases. This review discusses and provides examples of the potential of GWAS findings to be translated into clinical practice, i.e., diagnosis, prediction, prognosis, novel treatments and response to treatment of common diseases. The biological insights afforded by newly-identified robust associations represent the largest, albeit indirect, translational contribution of GWAS.