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Genetics in Jordan: MedLabs Launches the First Phase Toward Gene-Based Diagnostics

Genetics in Jordan: MedLabs Launches the First Phase Toward Gene-Based Diagnostics

By: Dr. Omar Hamdi Abu Al-Adas – Head of Genetics Department, MedLabs Group

MedLabs has announced the launch of the first phase of its advanced genetic testing services, including Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS), Whole Exome Sequencing (WES), and Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (FetoGene). This initiative aims to offer a healthcare model based on the unique genetic information of each individual, enhancing diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of genetic diseases.

Jordan and the Genetic Challenge: Local Factors Increase the Prevalence of Genetic Disorders

Jordanian society exhibits several factors that significantly contribute to the high prevalence of genetic disorders, including:

A high rate of consanguineous marriages, exceeding 50% of total marriages, and even reaching over 56% in certain areas.
The tribal structure of society leads to limited genetic diversity and, consequently, an increase in shared genetic mutations.
Limited access to and availability of genetic testing and counseling, leaving many carriers (unaffected individuals) unaware of the mutations they carry, which leads to the continued transmission of genetic mutations to future generations.
High rates of autosomal dominant disorders and environment-influenced diseases such as obesity, physical inactivity, smoking, etc.

Why Do We Need Genetic Testing in Jordan?

Imagine a child with mysterious symptoms being seen by five different specialists without a precise diagnosis—until one genetic test reveals the cause and guides treatment. Therefore, genetic testing is not a luxury; it is a necessity, because:

In many cases, especially when clinical symptoms are unclear, genetic testing is the most accurate method for diagnosing certain diseases, helping to avoid unnecessary clinical tests and saving time, effort, and resources for both the patient and the healthcare system.
A tool for assessing disease severity and predicting future progression.
A guide for physicians to select the most suitable treatment based on the patient’s genetic makeup.
A means for early intervention in conditions such as hereditary cancers.
A preventive tool to avoid the recurrence of the same genetic diseases in future generations, using methods such as IVF with genetic screening.
A way to detect treatable or manageable conditions in newborns at an early stage.

Current Clinical Challenges and the Importance of the Genome Lab at MedLabs

In the absence of a primary healthcare framework, patients often move between different specialties (pediatrics, neurology, metabolic disorders, genetics) without a unified care plan. Additionally, the lack of standardized genetic testing leads to unnecessary repetition of tests such as karyotyping, single-gene analysis, various routine lab tests, and imaging. This results in:

Medical burdens that delay or mislead diagnosis and treatment.
Psychological burdens due to unclear or inconclusive test results.
Financial burdens from high costs not covered by insurance.

MedLabs Vision: Integrated Genetic Medicine

MedLabs provides a comprehensive package of genetic laboratory services, including:

Easy access through a vast network of branches and modern digital facilities.
Pre- and post-test genetic counseling by qualified specialists to help families make informed decisions about their health.
Privacy and ethical handling of genetic data, with strict policies to store and manage this sensitive information within Jordan.
Support for scientific research through the development of a national genetic database to assist Jordanian researchers in analyzing local genetic traits.

Toward a Future of Precision Healthcare in Jordan

Through this initiative, MedLabs aims to redefine healthcare in Jordan by aligning it with gene-based precision medicine. This step will integrate Jordan into a modern global healthcare network driven by science and technology, improving not only the quality of care but also contributing to the development of a healthier Jordanian society.