New guidelines announced on health screenings for newborn babies in UAE

A nationwide database will be established

The guidelines will ensure early diagnosis of genetic diseases, as well as metabolic and endocrine disorders. Getty Images

The UAE has unveiled new guidelines surrounding the screening of newborn babies to detect possible health conditions that could affect their quality of life.

The move, announced on Friday by the Ministry of Health and Prevention, is part of new guidelines surrounding the care of newborns.

The National Newborn Screening Guidelines will ensure early diagnosis of genetic diseases, metabolic and endocrine disorders, said a senior official from the ministry.

They will also ensure screening for hearing and heart defects, as well as other critical congenital anomalies.

Another key part of the programme is the establishment of a database to tackle genetic diseases.

“Ensuring newborn health is a top priority,” said Dr Hussain Al Rand, assistant undersecretary for the Public Health Sector.

“The newly launched national guideline will provide a crucial reference for the health sector to improve the health of future generations.

“Additionally, it supports the creation of a comprehensive database on genetic diseases and aims to enhance community awareness about the significance of newborn screening.”

The guidelines will be enforced across government and private hospitals in the Emirates, he said.

Screenings for newborns was already mandatory in the country before the announcement of the new guidelines.

Detection, diagnosis and intervention for conditions that could affect a newborn’s health or long-term survival are the driving force behind the project, the ministry said.

The measures are expected to significantly reduce morbidity and mortality rates among newborns while also widening the options available to healthcare providers.

Dr Al Rand said the ministry would make “every possible effort to promote disease prevention and establish robust healthcare systems designed to support healthy lifestyles across all age groups”.

Parents will also be offered advice and health education to give their child the best possible start in life.