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United Arab Emirates: communities and community genetics
L I Al-Gazali1, R Alwash, Y M Abdulrazzaq
1Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.
Community Genetics
|August 23, 2005
Summary
Consanguineous marriages in the UAE lead to a high incidence of genetic disorders. Inadequate genetic services and lack of prenatal screening hinder effective management and prevention strategies for inherited diseases.
Area of Science:
- Medical Genetics
- Public Health
- Sociology
Background:
- The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has a cosmopolitan society with traditional indigenous values.
- Consanguineous marriages are prevalent, leading to a high frequency of genetic disorders, especially autosomal recessive conditions.
- Despite this, genetic services and widespread screening for conditions like thalassaemia are insufficient.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review common genetic problems in the UAE.
- To evaluate the availability and adequacy of genetic services and family support.
- To discuss barriers to improving prenatal counselling and clinical services.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of genetic disorders in the UAE.
- Analysis of current genetic services and support systems.
- Discussion of challenges in prenatal diagnosis and counselling.
Main Results:
- High prevalence of genetic disorders, including haemoglobinopathies, due to consanguinity.
- Inadequate genetic screening programs and limited access to prenatal diagnosis.
- Deficiency in national databases and genetic counselling resources.
Conclusions:
- Significant genetic burden exists in the UAE due to cultural practices.
- Urgent need for enhanced genetic services, including widespread screening and prenatal options.
- Addressing barriers to genetic counselling is crucial for effective disease management and prevention.