Abu Dhabi: The Emirates Health Services (EHS) recently made pre-marital screening mandatory for all citizens and expatriate Muslims who wish to get married in a civil ceremony at the court. Dr Kareema Alrasi, director of the Department of Primary Health Care said that couples can also undergo optional genetic testing as part of the pre-marital screening. This test examines genetic material to detect genetic mutations of diseases that the individuals may carry without showing any symptoms. Moreover, the test could identify the genes that cause hereditary diseases and prevent them from being carried into future generations. In the tests that were conducted earlier, experts were able to detect more than 570 genetic mutations that can cause hereditary diseases like cardiomyopathy, epilepsy, spinal muscular atrophy, hearing loss and cystic fibrosis.

What if genetic mutations are detected?
The optional genetic test is available at the Family Health Promotion Centre in Sharjah, Julphar Health Centre in Ras Al Khaimah and Al Faseel Family Health Promotion Centre in Fujairah. The results would be ready within two weeks. If genetic mutations are detected, then expert medical practitioners and counsellors would suggest suitable options including treatment. Such optional tests would help young couples make informed decisions about their married life. The pre-marital screening was launched in the country in 2008. The medical examination ascertains whether the couples are free from genetic diseases, infections and sexually transmitted diseases.

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Screening for these diseases
The screening process includes tests for diseases such as HIV, hepatitis B and C, syphilis, beta thalassemia, sickle cell anaemia and German measles (Rubella). The test report is valid for three months. Both partners are required to visit the same health centre for the tests. 

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