Pakistan has inaugurated its first genetic molecular laboratory, a collaborative effort with the Association of Pakistani Physicians of North America (APPNA). This organization comprises doctors of Pakistani origin who are based in the United States.
Located at Jinnah Sindh Medical University (JSMU), the new lab focuses on diagnosing physical and mental disabilities in premature infants and identifying genetic defects in children and adults.
The launch ceremony, held at the Karachi Press Club, saw notable attendees, including APPNA President Dr Asif Mohiuddin, General Secretary Dr Rizwan Naeem, and the Vice Chancellors of Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Prof. Amjad Siraj Memon, and Dow University, Prof. Dr Saeed Qureshi.
Dr. Mohiuddin highlighted the lab’s critical role in detecting genetic disorders and potential diseases in babies. He emphasized its importance for premature infants and its capability to predict future health issues, calling it a “significant step” towards modernizing medical diagnostics in Pakistan.
Prof. Memon noted that the lab is equipped with advanced technology for early detection of genetic defects. It can analyze a child’s genetic makeup and even determine the gender by examining fluid from the mother’s womb.
