The Emirates Genome Program has achieved a new record by collecting more than 800,000 samples from citizens, continuing its journey to achieve its goal of collecting one million samples. The program aspires to achieve the largest population genome initiatives, and one of the largest genomic databases in the world, in terms of sample size and technology used, which contributes to enhancing medical research, preventing genetic diseases, and improving the quality of healthcare in the future.
In detail, the Director of the Emirates Genome Program, Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadhi, said that thanks to the efforts of the Emirates Genome Council, officials, and work teams spread across the country, more than 800,000 samples have been collected from citizens, which is a new world record, towards achieving the program’s goal of collecting one million samples, which will be achieved soon.
He added to “Emarat Al Youm” that the program’s work teams are currently working on expanding the base of conducting tests by enhancing cooperation with a larger number of government entities and departments, in addition to all public and private schools in the country, to collect samples to achieve the program’s goal.
He explained that the UAE Genome Program is an ambitious national project launched by the wise leadership, and aims to draw a reference genetic map for UAE citizens to identify the causes of genetic diseases, by studying the genes of citizens across the country, using the latest DNA sequencing technologies, to accelerate the pace of preventive healthcare solutions and accurate diagnosis for current and future generations.
He pointed out that the program uses the latest genetic sequencing and artificial intelligence technologies to provide high-quality genetic data that will enrich available medical data and enhance the country’s capabilities as a center for research and innovation in the field of genome, thus contributing to achieving large-scale scientific discoveries. The analysis of the complete genome of UAE citizens also helps provide an opportunity for researchers, doctors and scientists to identify the causes of genetic diseases and the type of genetic mutations, predict susceptibility to some diseases and study them in more depth, and benefit from the results to develop highly efficient therapeutic and preventive healthcare plans, which contributes to reducing the spread of genetic and chronic diseases.
