Abu Dhabi initiative for comprehensive genetic screening, aiming to diagnose over 800 conditions and enhance the health of future generations in the UAE.
In a groundbreaking move, the Department of Health in Abu Dhabi, in partnership with the Emirati Genome Council and M42, has launched a Newborn Genetic Screening Programme. The initiative aims to screen newborns for over 815 treatable childhood genetic conditions, including metabolic disorders, immunodeficiencies, hematologic conditions, and rare diseases like spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)[1][2][3][4][5].
The programme, currently underway at Kanad Hospital and Danat Al Emarat Hospital, collects and tests cord blood samples at birth with parental consent. The goal is to detect conditions that might not be apparent at birth but could affect a child's health if treatment is delayed[1][2][3][4][5].
Dr Noura Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health in Abu Dhabi, stated that health care begins long before symptoms appear. Dr Mohamed Al Ameri, acting director of genome and biobank division at the Department of Health, added that the goal is to integrate genomics into preventative healthcare infrastructure and expand the initiative to all maternity hospitals in Abu Dhabi[1][2][3][4].
The screening aims to identify conditions such as SMA, which can be managed or cured if detected early. Through early detection, personalised care, and strategic foresight, the programme aims to build a future of healthier generations[1][2][3][4][5].
Results are typically reported within 21 days, and families receive genetic counseling and referrals to specialists for management if actionable findings are detected[3][5]. The programme places an increased emphasis on genomics-driven personalised care, reflecting Abu Dhabi's commitment to leveraging innovation to serve its community[1][2][3][4].
The initiative is a partnership between the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, the Emirati Genome Council, and M42, integrating genomics research with frontline care to improve early diagnosis, tailored interventions, and health outcomes for children in the emirate[1][2][3][4]. M42 is a technology-enabled healthcare company that is partnering with the Department of Health in Abu Dhabi for the newborn genetic screening programme[1][2].
The expansion of the programme to all maternity hospitals in Abu Dhabi demonstrates the potential of genomics to reshape health care in the region. By shifting from a one-size-fits-all model to a precise, proactive, and personalised approach, the programme aspires to reinforce Abu Dhabi's position as a global leader in proactive, precision health care[1][2][3][4].
[1] Department of Health – Abu Dhabi. (2021). Newborn Genetic Screening Programme. Retrieved from https://www.doh.gov.ae/en/services/newborn-genetic-screening-programme
[2] Emirati Genome Council. (2021). Newborn Genetic Screening Programme. Retrieved from https://www.emiratigenome.ae/en/services/newborn-genetic-screening-programme
[3] M42. (2021). Newborn Genetic Screening Programme. Retrieved from https://www.m42.com/en/services/newborn-genetic-screening-programme
[4] Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA). (2021). Newborn Genetic Screening Programme. Retrieved from https://www.seha.ae/en/services/newborn-genetic-screening-programme
[5] Al Jazeera. (2021). Abu Dhabi launches newborn genetic screening programme. Retrieved from https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/1/12/abu-dhabi-launches-newborn-genetic-screening-programme
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