Genetic Diseases Association launches Thalassemia campaign

Under the patronage of Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister for Higher Education and Scientific Research, the UAE Genetic Diseases Association hosted an event to honour its strategic and voluntary partners for their significant contribution to facilitate the launch of a campaign on ‘Emirates Free from Births of Thalassemia Children by Year 2012’.

At a gala dinner titled the ‘Power of Patrons’, Sheikh Nahyan honoured a number of associations and volunteers from all over the country for their significant role in the campaign that aims to identify Beta-Thalassaemia carriers among the UAE youth population. A number of top officials and healthcare industry experts were present at the event, which also witnessed a presentation by Dr. Mariam Mattar, Chief Executive of the UAE Genetic Diseases Association.

Dr. Mattar highlighted the magnitude of the problem in tackling genetic disorders that drain the medical, social and financial resources of the nation. She also listed the factors that contribute to the wide prevalence of genetic disorders in the Arab world. In addition to Thalassemia, Dr. Mattar outlined the factors that increase the incidence of inherited diseases such as sickle cell anemia and g6PD enzyme deficiency, and called for dedicated efforts to raise public awareness for the early detection of such diseases.

Dr. Mattar commended Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak for his staunch support in setting up the UAE Genetic Diseases Association, which established its first laboratory in Dubai Women’s College in March 2007.

Dr. Mariam invited all UAE nationals and other residents for a free screening at the Association’s laboratories, and said: "Our laboratory is equipped with internal and external quality assurance systems. Regular monitoring programmes are delivered by professional organisations from the US, the UK, and Australia. Experts from Japan and the UK supervise the facilities at the laboratory to ensure the quality of services.”

She specially applauded those who played a key role in organising the charity evening and the Association’s 3,000-strong volunteer network.

The UAE Genetic Diseases Association (UAEGDA) has conducted several screening programmes at universities, including the Higher Colleges of Technology and other public and private institutions. The Association has a target to screen at least 30,000 youth by 2010. It will also unveil a massive awareness campaign this month at ENCO, EPPCO, EMARAT, and ADNOC stations all over the UAE. More extensive activities in other parts of the country will be unveiled over the next few weeks.