What is UMMID?
UMMID initiative is launched by government to tackle inherited genetic diseases of new born babies. People who cannot afford expensive care for genetic disorders will be benefited from initiative. Government also inaugurated NIDAN (National Inherited Diseases Administration) Kendras which are supported by Department of Biotechnology (DBT).
Initiative is example of use of cutting-edge scientific technology and molecular medicine for extending Universal Health Coverage for all. The Government of India has launched the National Health Policy, 2017 aiming to shift focus from “sick-care” to “wellness”. UMMID initiative shall work towards achieving wellness by promoting prevention of genetic diseases.
What are aims of UMMID?
The UMMID initiative aims
- to establish NIDAN Kendras to provide counselling, prenatal testing and diagnosis, management, and multidisciplinary care in Government Hospitals wherein the influx of patients is more,
- to produce skilled clinicians in Human Genetics, and
- to undertake screening of pregnant women and new born babies for inherited genetic diseases in hospitals at aspirational districts.
What is significance of initiative for India?
- Congenital and hereditary genetic diseases are becoming a significant health burden in India, hence there is need for adequate and effective genetic testing and counselling services.
- In India’s urban areas, congenital malformations and genetic disorders are the third most common cause of mortality in newborns. Hence initiative would improve India’s performance in Infant mortality
- With a very large population and high birth rate, and consanguineous marriage favored in many communities, prevalence of genetic disorders is high in India. Hence UMMID was need of the hour
