MUSCAT : Currently, around 39 percent of couples undergo the screening, but the upcoming change will make it a requirement for completing the marriage contract.

This was highlighted during the launch of a campaign to enhance the premarital medical examination service and expand newborn screening, which was held under the patronage of His Excellency Dr. Mohammed bin Saeed bin Khalfan Al Maamari, Minister of Endowments and Religious Affairs and in the presence of His Excellency Dr. Hilal bin Ali Al Sabti, Minister of Health.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Dr. Jamila bint Tayseer Al Abri, a public health consultant, emphasised that while infectious diseases detected through screening do not preclude marriage, the decision rests entirely with the couple. Confidentiality of information will be maintained throughout the process.

As per the set agenda , the ‘Make the Beginning Right’ campaign will run for a year, paving the way for mandatory examinations in 2026. The phased implementation will involve optional testing in 2024-2025, expanding to include tenth-grade students in 2025-2026, and finally becoming mandatory in 2026.

The event also highlighted the expansion of newborn screening. Dr. Nadia Al Hashmi explained the phased rollout across Oman, starting with a pilot phase in Muscat Governorate. The program will screen for a range of genetic, metabolic, and endocrine diseases using blood samples from newborns.

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