DNA laboratory services launched to identify types of Thalassemia

A molecular (DNA) laboratory for Thalassemia testing has been opened at the Maldivian Blood Services.

The DNA laboratory, which will conduct tests related to Thalassemia and hemoglobin, was inaugurated today by Health Minister Abdulla Nazim.

This laboratory was established with an expenditure of MVR 2.5 million from the state budget.

During the ceremony, Ibrahim Abdul Razzaq Haleem, Chief Executive Officer of the Male' City Group of Hospitals, stated that important types of hereditary blood mutations can now be tested and results obtained within the Maldives. He noted that a total of 27 types of mutations can be identified.

"These are extremely important tests for those seeking blood-related treatments, and considering the types of blood diseases seen in the Maldives, kits specially designed for this purpose have been formulated by taking into account standards specific to Maldivians," he said.

Additionally, Haleem mentioned that among the blood mutations, important ones that could not be identified through previous testing methods can now be detected. He further stated that as a result of this service, identifying Thalassemia carriers at a young age and before marriage will help control the prevalence of Thalassemia.

He added that the ongoing efforts to launch Thalassemia prenatal diagnosis services will make this a service whose ease and benefits will extend to future generations.

Previously, this service was only provided in the Maldives by a private organization, SHE.