The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention has unveiled the UAE Human Genome Project during the ‘Arab Health 2017’ conference in Dubai in a bid to harness the power of genetic science and adopt modern and innovative techniques on DNA profiling and gene sequencing.

By identifying genetic fingerprint, the project seeks to prevent the spread of non-communicable diseases in the country, including obesity, diabetes, blood pressure, cancer, and asthma, and use genetic factors as a basis for developing personalized treatment for each patient.

Dr Youssif Al Serkal, assistant undersecretary for the Ministry of Health and Prevention - Hospitals Sector and chairman of the National Committee of the UAE Human Genome Project, said the key initiative is part of the strategic planning process aimed at exploring the future of the local healthcare sector.  

In essence, the government strives to create a genome database and reference dictionary for all genetic diseases in the UAE as the world begins to enter a new era of genetic medicine in which DNA profiling and genome sequencing will be used as an important tool for clinical care, said a statement.

As a healthcare tool, both will become the basis of diagnosis for genetic and non-communicable diseases to come up with better therapeutic solutions. The strategy is seen to significantly impact the UAE’s health policy, it said.

The UAE Human Genome Project is in accordance with the National Strategy for Innovation launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.

In terms of the local healthcare system, the national strategy enjoins the sector to improve the provision of domestic health services in accordance with the best international practices. In addition, the government, under the National Strategy for Innovation, directs the health industry to establish an environment that will encourage innovation, research, and development of advanced technological infrastructure, as well as attract future strategic partnerships with the most prestigious medical research centers and sustainable investments in the long term.

The move will enhance the international competitiveness of the country’s health system according to the globally recognised standards, leading to a stronger UAE position in terms of being an international hub for innovation in the health sector, the statement said. - TradeArabia News Service