Healthcare

Emirates Health Services (EHS) is advocating for individuals planning to get married to undergo genetic testing as part of their pre-marital screenings. This initiative aims to identify over 570 genetic mutations, effectively preventing genetic disorders and promoting informed family planning.

The genetic testing service, part of EHS’s commitment to innovative genomics, aligns with global trends and enhances the UAE’s standing in the global healthcare arena. Available at three EHS-affiliated health centers—Family Health Promotion Center in Sharjah, Julphar Health Center in Ras Al Khaimah, and AlFaseel Family Health Promotion Center in Fujairah—the service provides results within two weeks. Specialized consultants offer genetic counseling to help couples make informed decisions if a shared genetic mutation is detected.

H.E. Dr. Essam Al Zarooni, Acting Executive Director of Clinical Services Sector at EHS, highlighted the preventive nature of genetic testing. "This measure protects community members from genetic diseases by identifying inherited disease-causing genes and assessing the risk of passing them to future children," Dr. Al Zarooni explained. "It offers appropriate solutions for couples planning marriage and parenthood."

Emirates Health Services stresses the importance of genetic testing as an informed choice for prospective married couples. While pre-marital testing for infectious and genetic diseases such as thalassemia and sickle cell anemia is mandatory, the optional genetic test helps identify additional genetic risks. This enables specialized counseling, assisting couples in making informed decisions about their future health.

EHS emphasizes that genetic testing is beneficial not only for those with a family history of genetic disorders but for all individuals. The initiative leverages advanced healthcare infrastructure and the UAE Genome Program to transform genetic data into accurate health predictions.

This service is part of EHS’s alignment with UAE government healthcare policies and future aspirations, such as the "We the UAE 2031" and the UAE Centennial Plan 2071. It underscores EHS's dedication to proactive healthcare measures and innovation in genomics.

The service is free and optional for those planning to get married. It can be accessed by visiting authorized healthcare centers, booking an appointment through the EHS application, or calling 8008877.

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