The ministry emphasized that this decision is a first for the state in fostering the health of future generations and ensuring that the Emirati family has a healthy, sustainable quality of life. Additionally, it places the UAE's health sector in a unique position to compete in the areas of training medical professionals, enhancing research capabilities for the prevention of genetic diseases and reproductive medicine solutions, and extending the application of genome sciences through collaborations between domestic and foreign medical institutions.

A single national squad

Based on the National Genome strategy, which aims to build an integrated national genetic data system to help identify genetic diseases for each citizen proactively to enable early medical intervention, the ministry explained that it is working within one national team in an integrative manner in cooperation with the concerned authorities to apply genetic testing to those who are about to get married. This is done by providing medical cadres, specialized competencies, guidelines, and technical infrastructure. In accordance with the goals of the UAE Centennial Vision 2071, she emphasized that the implementation of this decision helps to ensure sustainable development and quality of life by transforming the healthcare industry and utilizing future technologies in the nation.

Genetic diagnostics for prevention

One preventative health intervention is genetic testing, which enables potential partners to get tested to see if they have common genetic mutations that could be passed on to their future children and result in avoidable hereditary illnesses.

Over 840 medical disorders are covered by the 570 genes included in the genetic test. It is seen as a very significant treatment since it assists those getting married in determining the likelihood that their children may have genetic problems and helps them make well-informed decisions about starting a family.

In addition to academic, medical, and technological partner institutions, the initiative is run by the Ministry of Health and Prevention, Department of Health-Abu Dhabi, Dubai Health Authority, Emirates Foundation for Health Services, and Dubai Health.

The UAE Ministry of Health begins implementing genetic testing

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