Parents' perspectives on expanded newborn genomic screening in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Background Newborn genomic screening offers the potential for early detection and management of genetic disorders. Understanding parental perspectives is essential before integrating genomic testing into standard newborn screening. Methods This was a descriptive cross-sectional study surveyed 568 parents in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). An online self-administered validated and piloted questionnaire was used to gather information on demographic characteristic and perspectives regarding newborn genomic screening. Data were analysed using R version 4.4.3. Results Most parents (78.2%) supported integrating genomics into newborn screening programs, with 63.5% stating it requires distinct management from standard screening. Females preferred geneticists (38.2% vs. 32.5%, p < 0.001) and hospitals (45.1% vs. 39.2%, p < 0.001) for discussions, with 74.2% emphasizing explicit consent compared to 68.5% of males (p < 0.002). Treatability (82.7%), age of symptom onset (74.1%), and severity (72.2%) were key decision-making factors. Additionally, 66.7% preferred genomic testing to be covered by insurance, and 82.2% supported storing genomic data for future use. Conclusion Parents participated in the study strongly support genomic newborn screening. Gender-based differences emphasize the need for tailored communication and culturally sensitive strategies to inform policy development and implementation of newborn genomic screening program in the UAE and similar contexts.