The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi integrates genetic testing as an integral component of the Premarital Screening Programme in the Emirate

11 Sep, 2024:

Aimed at enabling community members with insights to make informed health decisions for themselves and their families through harnessing the power of genomics, the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), the regulator of the healthcare sector in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, announced that the genetic test will become an essential part of the premarital screening for all Emiratis planning to marry in the Emirate as of October 1st, 2024.

Following the success of the pilot phase launched in 2022, and in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Public Health Center (ADPHC), DoH supported over 800 Abu Dhabi-based couples who underwent genetic testing in Abu Dhabi, enabling them to make informed health decisions for their future families. Data underscores that an impressive 86% achieved genetic compatibility and only 14% required additional intervention and family planning based on genetic results.

To be considered in family planning, the comprehensive genetic screening tests for autosomal recessive 570 genes contributing to 840+ genetic disorders. Consulting with healthcare professionals and genetic counselors is essential for a comprehensive understanding of the potential risks and available treatment options. The top common genetic disorders can lead to offspring loss of vision and hearing, blood clotting, developmental delay, organ function failure, hormonal imbalances, and seizures among others. The Department confirms that the test is offered in 22 primary care centres across Abu Dhabi, Al Dhafra and Al Ain region.

The comprehensive premarital genetic screening is a process where couples undergo genetic tests to identify if they are carriers of shared genetic mutations that could be passed on to their future children and cause preventable genetic diseases. Recognising the importance of genetic compatibility in safeguarding the health and well-being of future generations, DoH encourages all couples planning to get married to take the test and consider the issuance of the premarital screening genetic test results, which will take up to 14 days. This ensures that they receive the results in time to make informed decisions for themselves and their future families early in the process. The genetic test is available for all citizens in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

H.E. Dr. Ahmed AlKhazraji, Acting Director General of the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) said: “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 for future for themselves and their families.”

Dr. Asma Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the Research and Innovation Centre at the Department of Health– Abu Dhabi (DoH) said: “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.”

Dr. Al Mannaei, added: “Through similar approaches, Abu Dhabi continues to set a global standard in proactive healthcare, marking a significant paradigm shift from traditional and reactive healthcare to informed and holistic health planning and decisions.”

The Department continues to leverage the Emirate’s advanced healthcare infrastructure and innovative ecosystem to utilise the 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.