Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Laura Puckett, a genetics consultant at Abu Dhabi Health Services Company “Saha”, confirmed that the UAE possesses a huge genetic database through the “Emirati Genome Program”.
She said that the government is implementing health initiatives to benefit from them in developing preventive genetic testing programs.
In addition to transforming genomic knowledge into practical health practices that enhance community health and safety.
Paquette explained that comprehensive genetic testing contributes to prevention and enables individuals to make early health decisions.
She pointed out that the goal is to screen healthy people to detect genetic risks early.
She pointed out that the Abu Dhabi Department of Health launched pilot projects that include newborn screening and a premarital genetic screening program.
Which gives couples conscious decisions about childbearing.
Paquette stressed the importance of screening healthy adults to detect genetic predisposition to heart disease or cancer.
She stressed that early detection allows the implementation of preventive monitoring programs that may save lives.
She also pointed out the role of “genetic drugs” in helping doctors choose the most appropriate drug for each patient based on his genetic differences, which limits side effects.
