Dubai's Ruler also congratulated the new American leader on his victory
uae13 hours ago
Starting January 2025, genetic testing will be an essential part of the premarital screening programme for all UAE citizens planning to get married.
Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi, said this as she elaborated on the country's Genome Programme during a keynote session at the UAE Government Annual Meetings 2024 on Wedensday.
"In 2019, the UAE Genome Programme was launched, and in 2021, the UAE Genome Council was established under the leadership of Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed bin Zayed..... genetic testing will be an essential part of the premarital examination programme for all citizens intending to marry across the country, starting in January 2025," she said.
While premarital medical examination was mandatory for couples, both citizens and expats, ahead of marriage, genetic testing was optional.
Abu Dhabi had made genetic testing for couples a part of premarital screening back in October. The service is offered in 22 primary care centres across Abu Dhabi, Al Dhafra and Al Ain.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
Earlier, a top official had told Khaleej Times that genetic testing detects over 570 genetic mutations that can cause hereditary diseases such as cardiomyopathy, genetic epilepsy, spinal muscular atrophy, hearing loss, cystic fibrosis, and "other severe and chronic diseases that are difficult to treat".
According to the UAE Government website, premarital screening includes tests for infectious diseases such as HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) and Hepatitis B & C, syphilis; and genetic diseases such as Beta-thalassemia and sickle cell anaemia. It also checks for German Measles (Rubella).
ALSO READ:
Dubai's Ruler also congratulated the new American leader on his victory
uae13 hours ago
This year’s event also showcases a diverse range of local and regional design practices, reinforcing Dubai’s status as a UNESCO City of Design
uae13 hours ago
The fire, which took place on Friday night at a hotel near Baniyas Square, killed two people
uae13 hours ago
The new ruling reinforces the principle that no administrative act, including those related to medical liability, can be completely shielded from judicial oversight
uae14 hours ago
Tariq Saleh praised the UAE's historic fraternal stances in supporting the Yemeni people at various levels
uae14 hours ago
Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, located on the popular tourist island of Flores, spewed ash and lava that peppered the surrounding area with fireballs
uae17 hours ago
She was running to raise awareness about brain health and to prove that recovery is the beginning of a powerful transformation
uae18 hours ago
During the cooler season, these desert retreats become a perfect escape for family and individuals to unwind and celebrate tradition
uae21 hours ago