The Emirati Genome Program, an initiative focused on providing preventive and personalised healthcare for citizens of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has partnered with Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA) to increase individual participation.

The partnership was inaugurated last week with a three-day sample collection event for SEHA’s Emirati employees.

As part of the agreement, new sample collection sites will be made available across SEHA facilities, including the UAE capital’s Al Zafaranah Diagnostic and Screening Centre, Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, Corniche Hospital, Madinat Khalifa Healthcare Centre, and Baniyas Healthcare Centre. Additional sites will be available in neighbouring Al Ain, at Tawam Hospital and Mezyad Healthcare Centre.

WHY IT MATTERS

Experts recognise that genomic technology could be key in improving healthcare in the UAE. The Emirati Genome Program is also part of the country’s attempts to strengthen its position as a hub for innovation and research in the field of genomics.

Involved in the project is Abu Dhabi’s G42 Healthcare, which is using both its Biogenix Labs – the UAE’s first COVID-19 accredited large-scale detection laboratory – and its Omics Centre of Excellence – dubbed the region’s largest and most technologically advanced multi-omics facility – to analyse data anonymously.

“Genomics is transforming the way we look at healthcare by providing us a far more detailed understanding of diseases’ progression,” said Fahed Al Marzooqi, Chief Operating Officer of G42 Healthcare. “The Emirati Genome Program’s role is to enable the healthcare and medical community to harness the power of genomic technology and science to improve the health of the local population and deliver on the key healthcare priorities for the UAE.”

Late last month, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) and the Al Jalila Genomics Center of Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital (AJCH) announced the launch of its Center for Genomic Discovery. The joint venture, aimed at enhancing local genomic research, and diagnosing and treating patients with genetic disorders, coincided with the formation of the board of the Emirati Genome Program.

ON THE RECORD

“We share the vision of a comprehensive healthcare system in the UAE that is more personalised, and one which will significantly improve disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment,” said SEHA’s Group Chief Medical Officer, Anwar Sallam. “At SEHA, we have already seen a great level of participation by our Emirati employees. This partnership will further provide easier access and attract more participants to the programme.

“We call upon all Emiratis to participate in the world’s largest genomic studies, as their contribution will pave the way towards a healthier future for generations to come.”

The Emirati Genome Program is open to all UAE nationals of all ages. Participants are required to donate either a blood sample or a buccal swab.