Abu Dhabi Enhances Premarital Screening With Genetic Testing Integration

The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) has announced that genetic testing will be a mandatory part of premarital screening for all Emiratis planning to marry in the Emirate starting from 21st October 2024. This initiative aims to empower community members with insights to make informed health decisions for themselves and their families by leveraging genomics.

Following a successful pilot phase launched in 2022, DoH, in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Public Health Center (ADPHC), supported over 800 couples in Abu Dhabi who underwent genetic testing. The data revealed that 86% of these couples achieved genetic compatibility, while 14% required further intervention and family planning based on their genetic results.

The comprehensive genetic screening tests for autosomal recessive genes contributing to over 840 genetic disorders. Consulting healthcare professionals and genetic counsellors is crucial for understanding potential risks and treatment options. Common genetic disorders identified include vision and hearing loss, blood clotting issues, developmental delays, organ function failures, hormonal imbalances, and seizures.

Dr. Ahmed AlKhazraji, Acting Director General of ADPHC, stated, "The Premarital Screening Programme plays a vital role in protecting the health of couples planning to marry by detecting infectious diseases and inherited blood disorders while offering appropriate genetic counseling. This aligns with Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre's mission to safeguard community health. With the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi now integrating genetic testing into the programme, we are harnessing genomic science to provide couples with insights that guide them to make informed decisions for a healthier future for themselves and their families."

Recognising the significance of genetic compatibility in ensuring the well-being of future generations, DoH encourages all couples planning to marry to undergo this test. The premarital screening results will be available within 14 days, allowing couples ample time to make informed decisions early in their planning process.

Dr. Asma Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the Research and Innovation Centre at DoH, remarked, "The integration of genetic testing as part of the premarital screening programme is a proud milestone for Abu Dhabi. It positions the Emirate at the forefront of leading healthcare destinations globally, harnessing the power of genomics and latest technologies to promote informed decisions. Thus, safeguarding the health and well-being of community members today, as well as generations of tomorrow. This step aims to prevent the transmission of genetic diseases to children and elevate early intervention through different phases including diagnostic, tailored genetic counselling and introducing reproductive medicine solutions for couples."

Advanced Healthcare Infrastructure

The Department continues to leverage Abu Dhabi’s advanced healthcare infrastructure and innovative ecosystem by utilising DNA sequencing technology. This approach helps foresee medical conditions among individuals and translates advanced genetic data from the Emirati Genome Programme into clinical practice.

The comprehensive premarital genetic screening process involves identifying if couples carry shared genetic mutations that could be passed on to their children causing preventable diseases. The test is available at 22 primary care centres across Abu Dhabi, Al Dhafra, and Al Ain regions.

This initiative marks a significant shift from traditional reactive healthcare towards proactive health planning. By integrating genomic science into routine healthcare practices, Abu Dhabi sets a global standard in preventive medicine aimed at safeguarding future generations' health.

This strategic move underscores Abu Dhabi's commitment to enhancing community health through innovative solutions grounded in scientific advancements.

With inputs from WAM