Healthy marriage in Saudi Arabia: Protection for future generations and a foundation for a healthy society
Premarital screening: A preventative investment for future generations
Specialists and experts in health and genetics have affirmed that the premarital health program implemented in Saudi Arabia represents a long-term preventative investment and a fundamental pillar for building healthy families and a thriving society. The Ministry of Health emphasized that premarital medical examinations are not merely a routine procedure, but a mandatory requirement for registering a marriage contract. This program aims to protect future generations from genetic and infectious diseases and empower couples to make informed decisions based on scientific knowledge.
Historical background and program objectives
The National Healthy Marriage Program was launched in the Kingdom in 1425 AH (2004 CE) as a strategic step to address the health challenges associated with the prevalence of certain hereditary blood disorders, such as sickle cell anemia and thalassemia, which have a high incidence in some regions of the Kingdom. The program was a necessary response to the urgent need to raise awareness and provide genetic counseling, particularly in a society where consanguineous marriages are common. Over time, the scope of screening has expanded to include serious infectious diseases that can be transmitted between spouses or to children, such as hepatitis B and C, and HIV/AIDS.
The importance of the examination and its national impact
Dr. Mohammed Al-Shabib, a research scientist and consultant in pharmacological genetics, explained that the program has significantly contributed to reducing the likelihood of having children with serious genetic diseases, in addition to limiting the transmission of infectious diseases between spouses. He emphasized that the goal is not to prevent marriage, but rather to provide the knowledge and medical advice that enables both parties to understand the available options and make an informed decision that protects their family's future. For her part, Dr. Widad Majdali, a consultant in genetic diseases, described the program as a practical embodiment of the principle of "prevention is better than cure," as it gives couples a golden opportunity for early detection and specialized counseling, thus reinforcing the concept of shared responsibility in building a healthier and more stable society.
Correcting misconceptions and raising awareness
Experts stressed the need to intensify awareness campaigns in schools, universities, and across digital platforms to correct some misconceptions. Dr. Fatima Asiri, a senior genetics laboratory specialist, pointed out that some people confuse "carrier of a genetic trait" with "affected by the disease," emphasizing that carrying a trait does not necessarily mean exhibiting symptoms of the disease, but it does warrant genetic counseling to understand the likelihood of having an affected child. She affirmed that a "compatibility" result does not preclude marriage; rather, it opens the door to modern medical options, such as preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) of embryos, which helps in having healthy children.
Future prospects and promising technologies
Khuloud Al-Rubaie, a biotechnology specialist, pointed out that scientific advancements have not stopped at detection alone, but have extended to include advanced therapeutic solutions. She highlighted the Kingdom's adoption of Casgevy treatment, which utilizes CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing technology, offering patients with sickle cell anemia and thalassemia a genuine chance of recovery. Consultant Hani Al-Afghani affirmed that these preventative programs have proven their effectiveness globally in reducing the birth rates of children with genetic diseases by up to 90%, reflecting the maturity of society and its commitment to sparing future generations the burden of preventable illnesses through informed decision-making.
