Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

Citizens getting married in Abu Dhabi will be required to undergo mandatory genetic testing as part of the premarital screening program starting October 1, as announced by the emirate's Department of Health on Wednesday. Dr. Asma Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the Research and Innovation Centre at DoH, said in the announcement, " This step aims to prevent genetic diseases and elevate early intervention through different phases, including diagnostic, tailored genetic counselling and introducing reproductive medicine solutions for couples." The tests allow couples to determine if they are carriers of shared genetic mutations that could be passed on to their future children and cause preventable genetic diseases. The comprehensive screening covers 570 autosomal recessive genes associated with over 840 genetic disorders. Common genetic disorders can result in children being born with vision and hearing loss, blood clotting issues, developmental delays, organ dysfunction, hormonal imbalances, and seizures, among other conditions. The authority announced that this service will be available at 22 primary care centers across Abu Dhabi, Al Dhafra, and Al Ain, with test results provided within 14 days. Genetic testing offers many benefits, including providing essential information that helps couples make informed health decisions before marriage. FLE/Expat Media
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