Experts call for early genetic testing to manage disorders

ZANZIBAR: MEMBERS of the public have been urged to visit hospitals early for genetic screening, to enable timely detection and management of genetic disorders.

Zanzibar’s Deputy Minister for Health, Mr Hassan Khamis Hafidh, made the call during a visit to Jitimai District Hospital.

The visit followed his tour of patients living with genetic disorders at Mnazi Mmoja and Jitimai hospitals, as part of the global observance of World DNA Week. The aim was to offer comfort and distribute gifts to those affected. World DNA Day is observed globally on April 25th each year.

Deputy Minister Hafidh said that the government has strengthened healthcare infrastructure, including the construction of district and regional hospitals. Dedicated facilities have also been set up to provide specialised services for individuals with genetic conditions, ensuring they receive quality care.

“I urge the public to understand that genetic disorders are treatable. Early diagnosis and care can significantly improve quality of life. Recognising and supporting those with such conditions is vital to enabling them to live normal lives like everyone else,” the deputy minister said.

On his part, the Chief Government Chemist, Dr Farid Mzee Mpatani, said that the Zanzibar government, through the Government Chemist Laboratory Agency, implemented a regulatory framework in 2019 to oversee genetic testing. This regulation facilitates the diagnosis of genetic disorders, parental verification, and forensic investigations.

Dr Mpatani also said that genetic diseases are inherited from parents, particularly from mothers to their children.

He advised couples to undergo genetic screening before conceiving to prevent hereditary disorders and reduce the number of children born with such conditions.

Meanwhile, parents of children with genetic disorders, including Munira Abdalla and Ramadhan Mohamed, expressed their gratitude to the Zanzibar government for improving health services, such as establishing specialised clinics and ensuring access to essential medications.

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They also thanked the office of the Chief Government Chemist for offering support during DNA Week. However, they appealed to the government to enhance services further by providing a designated waiting area at Jitimai Hospital, as the current space is limited and inadequate during clinic days.