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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.

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You are what you eat!” This catches attention, but when we dig deeper, it reveals something far more meaningful than body shape or weight. The food we choose carries real power: it can nourish our appearance, fortify our hearts, and regulate cholesterol levels. In this article, we’ll explore how a healthy diet contributes not just to a lean physique, but to lasting cardiovascular wellness.

Understanding Cholesterol and Its Impact on Health

First, we need to grasp what cholesterol actually is.

Cholesterol is a waxy, fatty substance naturally produced by the liver, and also present in some animal-based foods. Contrary to common belief, cholesterol isn’t inherently harmful—it plays essential roles in building cell membranes, synthesizing hormones, transporting fat-soluble vitamins, and aiding in the production of bile acids that help digest fats.

Types of Cholesterol: The Good and the Bad

Cholesterol travels in the bloodstream via two main types of lipoproteins:

• Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL), commonly referred to as the “bad” cholesterol, can accumulate in arterial walls and lead to blockages.

• High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL), often referred to as the “good” cholesterol, helps carry excess cholesterol from the bloodstream back to the liver for disposal.

When the balance between these two types is disrupted—too much LDL and too little HDL—the risk of heart disease and stroke increases. That’s why understanding and managing this balance through a healthy lifestyle is critically important.

How Does Healthy Eating Affect Cholesterol Levels?

The food we eat plays a direct role in regulating blood cholesterol levels. A healthy diet can truly make the difference between a balanced and an imbalanced cholesterol profile, favoring the good while minimizing the bad.

The Importance of Healthy Fats in the Diet

Not all fats are bad—some types are essential for heart health and cholesterol balance. Unsaturated fats, found in olive oil, avocados, nuts, and fatty fish (such as salmon and sardines), help lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and raise high-density lipoprotein (HDL). 

In contrast, saturated and trans fats—common in fried foods, butter, and margarine—raise LDL and increase the risk of arterial blockages. Including healthy fats in your diet is a smart step toward improving cardiovascular health.

The Role of Fiber in Improving Cholesterol Levels

Soluble fiber is an effective nutrient for reducing LDL cholesterol. It binds to cholesterol in the digestive tract and helps remove it from the body before it can be absorbed into the bloodstream. These fibers are abundant in whole grains, such as oats and barley, as well as in legumes like beans and lentils, and in various fruits and vegetables. Beyond reducing cholesterol, fiber also promotes a feeling of fullness, which supports weight management—a key factor in optimizing heart and cholesterol health.

Nutritional Habits as a Preventive Measure Against Heart Disease

Following a balanced diet isn’t just about lowering cholesterol—it also supports overall health and reduces risk factors for heart disease. This means eating low-carb meals with moderate amounts of protein, whole grains, fresh vegetables, and fruits, while cutting back on added sugars and excess salt. Such nutritional balance helps reduce inflammation, improve blood pressure, and regulate blood sugar, creating an internal environment less prone to atherosclerosis or heart attacks.

The Role of Exercise Alongside a Healthy Diet 

Even the healthiest foods need a helping hand—enter physical activity, the essential partner to a heart-friendly diet. Regular exercise such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling has been shown to significantly raise HDL (“good” cholesterol) while reducing LDL (“bad” cholesterol) and triglycerides. 

Final Summary

Pairing a nutritious diet rich in fiber and healthy fats with regular exercise is a winning formula for balancing LDL and HDL cholesterol, protecting your heart, reducing the risks of chronic diseases, and investing in long-term well-being.