ABU DHABI: Reflecting the emirate’s ambitions to a healthier future for all, the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), the regulator of the emirate’s healthcare sector, in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC), has supported over 353 Abu Dhabi-based couples in making informed health decisions before marriage through the expanded genetic screening within the premarital screening services provided across the primary healthcare centres.
Recent data underscores the screening’s positive impact, with 353 couples having enrolled, an impressive 85 percent achieved genetic compatibility, and only 15 percent required additional family planning interventions based on genetic results. The screening programme translates both DoH and ADPHC’s efforts in elevating the healthcare journey of couples early on throughout the different phases, including diagnostic, genetic counselling, and introducing reproductive medicine solutions.
In 2022, the DoH and ADPHC incorporated an optional genetic screening in
the premarital screening programme as part of proactive preventive measures to safeguard the health and well-being of community members. By detecting and preventing genetic conditions, genetic screening hinders the transmission of a certain group of hereditary diseases and ultimately leads to a healthier Abu Dhabi community. Offered in more than 22 healthcare facilities across Abu Dhabi, the comprehensive genetic screening tests for autosomal recessive 570 genes contribute to over 840 genetic disorders.
Dr. Asma Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the Research and Innovation Centre at the DoH, said, ‘Recognising the importance of genomics in making informed decisions, Abu Dhabi’s proactive approach places it at the forefront of leading healthcare systems around the world. Integrating genetic tests into premarital screening in Abu Dhabi surpasses the global trend of pushing genomics into mainstream healthcare, paving the way for more precise and effective medicine. The DoH remains committed to empowering commun
ity members with data and insights that can support them in making informed decisions to manage their health and address potential risks early on.’
Dr. Omniyat Al Hajeri, Executive Director of Community Health Sector at Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) said, ‘This project underscores the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre’s dedication, in partnership with its strategic stakeholders, to establish preventative genetic screening approach and support in identifying high-risk couples by introducing the genetic testing and therefore facilitating discussion on assisted intervention options and follow up the referral to the IVF centres as needed in the future. Our objective through this initiative is to proactively prevent the transmission of certain groups of genetic conditions to the next generation while providing the support needed to empower individuals in regard to future decisions.’
The department continues to leverage the emirate’s advanced healthcare infrastructure and innovative ecosystem to utilise DNA
sequencing technology to foresee medical conditions among individuals and encourage the translation of advanced genetic data provided through the Emirati Genome Programme into clinical practice.
While genetic compatibility plays a significant role in ensuring the long-term health and well-being of future generations, the DoH encourages couples to undergo premarital genetic screening and include it in their marriage plans to support them in early detection, risk mitigation, and family planning.
Source: Emirates News Agency
