Understanding Premarital Screening Requirements in Abu Dhabi

The premarital screening has been mandatory for all marrying couples in Dubai, whether Emiratis or residents. This exercise is proposed to protect individuals’ health and that of their future children, as well as the general community, through the identification of potential health risks in the marrying couples. Since October 2024, genetic testing before marriage has been an integral part of such testing for the very reason that the couples will be well-informed about their genetic and health compatibility with a view to starting families.

What is Premarital Screening?

The main aim of premarital screening is the general checkup of couples planning to enter into marriage. The primary goal of premarital screening encompasses preventing infectious diseases and genetic disorders for the health benefit of the future generations. It involves planning a schedule of appointments with various health professionals who provide relevant premarital counseling and attend to immediate health issues.

Among infectious diseases, these tests check for HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, syphilis, and other sexually transmitted infections. Other screening tests include blood disorders inherited by the couple, like Beta-thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, and other hemoglobinopathies. The early diagnosis of such health issues will lead to the right decision-making by the couples regarding their future together.

Genetic Testing: A Key Component of Premarital Screening

Starting October 2024, genetic testing will also be at the core of premarital screening in Abu Dhabi’s larger health program for all Emiratis. Following a successful pilot phase launched in 2022, the department of health ensured that genetic screening is now a standard part of the premarital screening process. The test will help in identifying shared genetic mutations which are likely to be inherited in offspring and further lead to genetic disorders.

The genetic test screens for more than 570 genes responsible for over 840 genetic conditions. This initiative has supported more than 800 couples by further helping them assess the risks of having children with hereditary diseases. Of those tested, 86% of the couples turned out to be genetically compatible, while 14% needed further intervention and family planning advice.

Why Genetic Screening Matters

Genetic screening also facilitates many advantages for a couple, including:

1. Genetic Risks: Genetic screening identifies whether both partners carry the same genetic mutation. In such cases, if it is found that both partners are carriers of the same mutation, their children may be at risk due to the inheritance of genetic disorders.
2. Informed Family Planning Decisions: Couples have the advantage of making informed decisions regarding their reproductive choices, exploring, if necessary, assisted reproductive technologies like IVF, together with genetic screening of the embryo.
3. Prevention of Inherited Diseases: Premarital screening, by finding out carriers of genetic disorders before marriage, reduces the chances of inherited diseases passing to the next generation.
4. Health Education and Counseling: Counseling on maintaining a healthy pregnancy and prenatal care is given, along with existing options to avoid or manage genetic disorders.

How the Genetic Screening Process Works

Genetic screening is a broad process and involves a few steps, elaborated as follows:

• Medical History: The couples provide medical and family history in order to identify any hereditary condition.
• Blood Tests: Blood samples are taken with the purpose of screening for genetic mutation and infectious diseases.
• Genetic Counselling: Results may be explained to the couple in order to make them understand the risk and advise further action if any.

• Comprehensive Genetic Testing: It contemplates the screening of over 570 genes responsible for more than 840 genetic disorders.
• Professional Referrals: In the case of genetic tests indicating possible risks, such couples are referred for further consultation and advice by the genetic specialists.

Types of Tests Offered in Premarital Screening

Generally, all premarital screening tests are divided into three categories, as described below:

• Infectious Diseases: Test for HIV, syphilis, Hepatitis B and C, and other sexually transmitted infections.
• Inherited Blood Disorders: Common genetic conditions include sickle cell anemia, Beta-thalassemia, and other hemoglobinopathies common in this region.
• Genetic Screening: Genetic screening, included in the new mandatory testing, will screen for a number of hereditary diseases that will help the couples assess risks of passing genetic conditions to their offspring.

Where to Get Premarital Screening in Abu Dhabi

Premarital Screening could be performed in one of many health centers located in Abu Dhabi, Al Dhafra, and Al Ain. For an appointment, one could use the SEHA app or call 80050. Some of the key centers include:

Benefits of Premarital Screening for the Community

Implementation of genetic testing through the premarital screening program imposes some advantages on the greater Abu Dhabi community by:

• Prevention of Genetic Diseases: Early detection of genetic risks reduces the impact of inherited diseases and congenital disorders.
• Healthier Generations Ahead: It gives assurance that couples can make informed choices regarding family planning because of the better health that children will grow up with.
• More Public Awareness: It helps to raise awareness among the masses about genetic conditions and early diagnosis that further facilitates greater understanding and acceptance in society about genetic testing.

Why Premarital Screening is Crucial for Couples

It is, therefore, very important to consider premarital screening to ensure the future health of couples and their offspring. Earlier diagnosis of health risks, particularly genetic ones, would enable the couple to make informed choices regarding reproductive decisions besides family planning. Consequently, Abu Dhabi will introduce mandatory genetic testing this coming October 2024, to proactively help marriages and families become healthier.

If you are planning to get married in Abu Dhabi and require professional guidance on the legal marriage process, premarital screening requirements included, the marriage lawyers at Dubai Court Marriage can help. They will give you proper guidance for the completion of the legal procedures smoothly, besides full compliance with health laws. Reach out today for professional assistance in planning your marriage and premarital health screenings.