Dr. Hatem El Ghzal Explains the National Human Genome Laboratory Project
Dr. Hatem El Ghzal, a specialist in embryology, explained on Friday, September 12, 2025, that the National Human Genome Laboratory project is part of an integrated national program for the prevention of genetic diseases. In a statement to the National Radio, he added that this project is based on two main axes:
- Reducing the number of births of infants with hereditary diseases
- Early detection of these diseases if a child is born with a genetic condition The program, he specified, relies in particular on family doctors, who provide prenuptial medical certificates. These certificates require the necessary analyses to be carried out to prevent the risks of hereditary diseases. Dr. Ghzal also revealed that once the laboratory is completed and operational, it will enable advanced genetic analyses to be performed for patients in public hospitals. Previously, these analyses had to be sent abroad. The service will also be extended to private sector laboratories, and it will contribute to protecting the Tunisian genome. It is worth noting that the Minister of Health, Mostapha Ferjani, chaired a working meeting two days ago to follow up on this project at the Pasteur Institute of Tunis. He emphasized that this project is a national priority to ensure health sovereignty and strengthen Tunisia's scientific and international influence.
