DNA Laboratory for Thalassaemia Testing Opened at Maldivian Blood Services

A new DNA laboratory capable of identifying thalassaemia-related mutations has been opened at Maldivian Blood Services, marking a major development in the diagnosis and management of inherited blood disorders.

The facility was inaugurated yesterday by Health Minister Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim.

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The laboratory will provide critical genetic information to support blood treatment services in the Maldives. The facility is able to analyse blood samples and identify 27 different thalassaemia-related mutations that are known to exist in the country.

The laboratory is equipped with specialised testing kits developed based on the specific blood disorders prevalent in the Maldives. It is also expected to detect key genetic mutations that could not be identified through previous forms of analysis.

The new service is intended to support early identification of individuals who carry thalassaemia traits, including screening at a young age and prior to marriage. Authorities said this will strengthen national efforts to reduce the prevalence of thalassaemia and improve prenatal diagnostic services, delivering long-term benefits for future generations.

The DNA laboratory was established using MVR 2.5 million from the state budget. Maldivian Blood Services noted that this is the first time DNA-based thalassaemia testing has been introduced at a government health facility.

Previously, such DNA-based testing services were provided by the Society for Health Education.