Whole Exome Sequencing reduces wait time for diagnosis from 7 years to up to 6 months and is expected to benefit 13 million Brazilians
A new innovative genetic test is now available in the Unified Health System (SUS), according to an announcement by the Ministry of Health, reported by Metrópoles, a partner of TV BRICS.
The medical evaluation, known as Whole Exome Sequencing, incorporates high technology and aims to diagnose rare genetic diseases. Patients are expected to receive their results within six months, which represents a major advance over the previous waiting period, which was around seven years.
Globally, around 7,000 rare diseases have been identified, with an estimated 70 per cent linked to genetic causes. Official data indicate that roughly 13 million people in Brazil are living with one of these conditions.
The Federal Government is investing more than US$5 million to ensure that the test is available free of charge within the public healthcare system. The initiative is designed to enable up to 20,000 diagnoses annually, with the aim of supporting up to 90 per cent of individuals with suspected genetic disorders.
The project is already available in 11 national SUS units, and the ministry plans to expand the offer to all states by April this year.
Other countries around the world, including the BRICS and BRICS+ countries, have made significant advances in the treatment of diseases and the incorporation of innovative solutions in the medical field.
In China, researchers have created a high-tech bioelectronic patch that offers a new approach to treating organs in the human body. According to China Daily, a partner of TV BRICS, the innovative device is capable of adapting to the irregular shape of human organs, allowing for targeted treatment of affected areas.
Russian scientists have achieved a significant breakthrough in cancer treatment by developing a novel compound that works by blocking the multiplication of cancer cells, rather than aggressively destroying them, as in traditional treatments. According to the website of the Russian Ministry of Science and Higher Education, the approach opens prospects for more effective therapies with fewer side effects.
Meanwhile, in Egypt, a medical team has successfully performed the country’s first catheter-based pulmonary artery valve implant procedures. As reported by Daily News Egypt, a partner of TV BRICS, the operation represents an important advancement in cardiac care both nationally and across the African continent.
African Times published this article in partnership with International Media Network TV BRICS
