The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (Mohap) announced on Friday the launch of National Newborn Screening Guidelines for all government and private hospitals. This initiative aims to improve medical examination procedures for newborns across the country.
According to a Khaleej Times report, the guidelines are designed to prevent early health complications by standardizing required laboratory and clinical tests. They include blood spot tests, early diagnosis of genetic diseases, metabolic and endocrine disorders, as well as screenings for hearing abnormalities, heart defects, and other critical congenital anomalies. Designated reference laboratories nationwide will be identified to support these procedures.
The implementation of these guidelines will also help create a database on genetic diseases and increase community awareness about the importance of early screening for newborns.
Dr. Hussain Abdul Rahman Al Rand, Mohap Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health Sector, emphasized the ministry’s commitment to ensuring newborn health. “Ensuring newborn health is a top priority and the ministry is committed to providing comprehensive preventive and therapeutic health services that adhere to the latest international standards,” he said.
He added that Mohap will continue to promote disease prevention and establish robust healthcare systems to support healthy lifestyles across all age groups, aligning with their strategic objective of enhancing the overall quality of life.