Abu Dhabi Launches Groundbreaking Newborn Genetic Screening Programme
The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) has announced the launch of the Newborn Genetic Screening Programme, a pioneering healthcare initiative designed to detect more than 800 childhood genetic conditions at birth. The announcement was made on Monday, August 18, marking a major step toward advancing personalised and precision medicine in the emirate.
The programme, one of the most comprehensive of its kind globally, leverages whole genome sequencing to screen newborns for over 815 treatable genetic conditions. These include a wide spectrum of disorders such as metabolic conditions, immunodeficiencies, blood disorders, and rare diseases, including spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Many of these conditions can be managed or even cured if identified in the early stages of a child’s life.
In its initial rollout, the screening is being offered on a voluntary basis at Kanad Hospital and Danat Al Emarat Hospital, in collaboration with M42. The service is currently available to UAE Nationals and to children of Emirati mothers born in Abu Dhabi.
Authorities confirmed that expansion plans are already underway to make the service available across all maternity hospitals in the emirate. This strategic move underscores Abu Dhabi’s growing leadership in preventive healthcare and its commitment to enhancing the quality of life through early detection and medical innovation.
The programme is being implemented in partnership with the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi and the Emirati Genome Council, further integrating genomics research with frontline medical care to shape the future of healthcare in the UAE.
