The development of genetic counseling services and training program in Saudi Arabia
Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 7, 2026

Development of Multiplex Real-Time RT-qPCR Assays for the Detection of SARS-CoV-2, Influenza A/B, and MERS-CoV
Published on: November 10, 2023
Alya A Qari1, Ameera S Balobaid, Rifaat R Rawashdeh
1Department of Medical Genetics, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Mbc-75, PO Box 3354, Riyadh, 11211, Saudi Arabia.
Abstract:
In 2005 the first Saudi genetic counseling training program was established by the Department of Medical Genetics at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center (KFSH&RC) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The program has graduated five genetic counselors with high diploma-level degree. This brief report describes the development of the genetic counseling training program and the factors that led to its establishment. Special emphasis is made to unique cultural practices including consanguinity, religious influence, and termination of pregnancy. This report also describes the current status of the genetic counseling services offered by KFSH&RC and availability of genetic testing.
Related Concept Videos
Genetic Screens
Forward genetic screens
Forward or “classical” genetic screens involve creating random mutations in an organism’s DNA using radiation, mutagens, or insertion of additional bases, which result in visible changes...
Human Genetics
The complex relationship between genetics and psychology is observable through common biological components such...
What is Genetic Engineering?
Karyotyping
Karyotyping
Gene Therapy
