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Genetic screening is crucial in identifying potential genetic disorders, enabling couples to make informed decisions about their future. It includes testing for diseases like sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, and cystic fibrosis.
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In many Arab countries, such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, premarital genetic screening is mandatory due to the high prevalence of hereditary diseases like sickle cell disease and thalassemia. This condition is largely driven by the cultural practice of consanguineous marriages which increases the risk of passing down genetic disorders.
Similarly, in West Africa, countries like Ghana and Nigeria have introduced premarital sickle cell testing as a preventive measure. Uganda, with one of the highest rates of sickle cell disease in East Africa, is also considering legislation to make sickle cell testing and counseling mandatory before marriage.
We spoke with experts about the importance of premarital carrier screening for prospective couples,
Dr Richa Soni, Associate Consultant in Medical Genetics at Fortis Memorial Research Institute (Gurugram), said that premarital carrier screening is vital for the early detection of recessive genes responsible for various genetic disorders, even in asymptomatic individuals.
This screening allows couples to make informed family planning decisions, such as pursuing prenatal testing or genetic counseling, she said, adding that understanding their genetic risks can help couples prepare emotionally for potential challenges and seek guidance from healthcare professionals and support groups.
“Early detection and intervention for genetic disorders can substantially improve the quality of life for affected individuals and their families. Advancements in genetic testing technology have expanded the scope of carrier screening,” she said.
“Comprehensive panels can now identify carriers for a broader range of genetic disorders, including less common but severe conditions. This enables couples to take proactive steps toward ensuring a healthier future for themselves and their families,” said Dr Soni.
Dr Richa Choudhary, Consultant Obstetrics and Gynecology at Aakash Healthcare, highlighted the importance of genetic counseling in understanding how genes, birth defects, and medical conditions can affect family and baby health. She highlighted that prenatal genetic counseling is especially beneficial for couples with a family history of inherited conditions, chromosomal disorders, or birth defects, as well as those facing certain risk factors.
“The risk factors include a history of stillbirth or multiple miscarriages, difficulties in conceiving, having a child with an inherited disorder or birth defect, developmental delay or intellectual disability, or a positive genetic carrier screening in either parent. This also applies to couples who are close relatives or come from an ethnic background, which puts a child at higher risk of genetic conditions. Hence, genetic counseling is highly advisable,” she added.
Dr. Prashant Sinha, Senior Consultant and Head of Emergency Medicine at PSRI Hospital, said that premarital health check-ups to prevent issues like infertility or other health concerns should become the norm.
Some Gulf countries are already proactive in screening for conditions such as sickle cell anemia and cystic fibrosis, as many individuals diagnose these issues only after marriage. Today, simple tests—like blood tests or cheek swabs—can reveal genetic factors or health conditions such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or other transmissible diseases, he said, adding that these screenings help couples establish a transparent foundation by understanding each other’s health status from the outset.