PGI Chandigarh unveils DBT-UMMID initiative to combat genetic disorders

Written by Medical Dialogues Team Published On 2025-01-27T12:26:28+05:30 | Updated On 27 Jan 2025 12:26 PM IST

Chandigarh: In an effort to enhance healthcare services for genetic disorders, the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, in collaboration with the Punjab government, has launched the DBT-UMMID (Unique Methods of Management and Treatment of Inherited Disorders) initiative in Moga.

This initiative, funded by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Union Ministry of Science and Technology aims to provide comprehensive genetic screening and interventions for the local population, particularly focusing on women and newborns, over the next three years.

Moga Deputy Commissioner Vishesh Sarangal, in a review meeting of the health department's schemes, emphasized the initiative’s potential to improve early detection and, consequently, health outcomes for both mothers and newborns.

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Speaking to the Hindustan Times, he said, “For the people of Moga, the project promises improved early detection, leading to better health outcomes for both mothers and newborns. By addressing genetic health risks at the earliest stages, it aims to save lives and reduce the long-term burden of untreated genetic disorders on families and the health care system.”

Sarangal also directed civil hospital staff, including the civil surgeon and other officers, to appoint nodal officers at the Community Health Centre (CHC) and Primary Health Centre (PHC) levels to ensure the effective implementation of the project. He also emphasized the need for staff training to support its success.

Pratishtha Sharma, representative of PGIMER, informed the project will begin with the screening of approximately 30,000 antenatal care (ANC) women in Moga for HbA2 (haemoglobin) levels using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

According to the Hindustan Times, she added, “If both partners are identified as carriers of a genetic disorder thalassemia, prenatal testing will be conducted at PGIMER to assess any potential risks. Additionally, almost 15,000 newborns will undergo screening for common, treatable genetic disorders, including congenital hypothyroidism, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, galactosemia, and G6PD deficiency biotinidase deficiency in the next three years. Early detection of these conditions is crucial, as timely interventions can prevent severe health complications and save lives.”

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In addition to the genetic screening efforts, Deputy Commissioner Sarangal also reviewed other health initiatives in Moga, focusing on reducing maternal and child mortality rates. He urged officials to make special efforts to increase antenatal care (ANC) registrations and reduce the rate of home deliveries. ASHA workers were also directed to go door to door to raise awareness so that women get their deliveries done in government hospitals.

PGIMER Chandigarhgenetic disorderspunjab governmentmaternal healthPGI ChandigarhPostgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research

Medical Dialogues Team