Emirati Genome Programme partners with SEHA to increase participation in Abu Dhabi

The Emirati Genome Programme announced its collaboration with SEHA (Abu Dhabi Health Services Co.) to increase Emirati citizens’ participation.

As part of the partnership, SEHA hosted a three-day sample collection event for their Emirati employees. In partnership with SEHA’s network of care facilities, new sample collection sites have been added in Abu Dhabi, which include Al Zafaranah Diagnostic & Screening Center, Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, Corniche Hospital, Madinat Khalifa Healthcare Center, and Baniyas Healthcare Center. Additionally, in Al Ain, new centers have been set up in Tawam Hospital and Mezyad Healthcare Center.

برنامج الجينوم الإماراتي يجمع عينات دم من مواطني دولة الإمارات من جميع الأعمار ليتم دراسة تركيبة الموروثات الجنية لمواطني الدولة، والمساهمة في تعزيز قدرات التنبؤ والوقاية من الأمراض الوراثية والأمراض المزمنة. pic.twitter.com/ZSasP8HoL4

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Dr Anwar Sallam, group chief medical officer, SEHA, said: “We share the vision of a comprehensive healthcare system in the UAE that is more personalized, and one which will significantly improve disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. 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.”

G42 Healthcare will utilise its Biogenix Labs – Omics Centre of Excellence to analyse data anonymously, generate a comprehensive genomic map, and potentially find insights to drive scientific discovery.

Dr. Fahed Al Marzooqi, chief operating officer, G42 Healthcare: “Genomics is transforming the way we look at healthcare by providing us a far more detailed understanding of diseases’ progression. The Emirati Genome Programme’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.”

Overseen by the UAE Genomics Council, the Emirati Genome Programme aims to bolster healthcare services provided to citizens and is open to UAE nationals across all ages. Participants will only be required to donate either a blood sample or a buccal swab during their visit to the collection sites where a team will guide them through the process. The programme operates in line with ethical and governance standards and ensures the anonymity of all participants.

The data will be used to develop healthcare strategies to address the population’s needs and support preventive medicine in the UAE.