Canada Global (Web News) UAE has announced mandatory premarital genetic testing for all Emirati couples starting January 2025 to safeguard future generations’ health. Led by the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) with support from various health authorities, the initiative aims to prevent genetic disorders and enhance public health.
Initially launched as a pilot in Abu Dhabi in 2022, the program screened over 800 couples, revealing 86% genetic compatibility, while 14% required additional planning. The tests analyze 570 genes linked to 840 medical conditions, helping reduce chronic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular issues.
The program also seeks to build a national genetic database for early disease detection and intervention, aligning with the UAE Centennial Vision 2071 for sustainable healthcare advancements.