AIIMS Jammu Conducted a Workshop on Genetic Counselling and Prenatal Diagnosis

Samba August 19: In a significant stride towards Prenatal diagnosis and genetic counselling, AIIMS Jammu hosted the “First Workshop on Genetic Counselling and Prenatal Diagnosis” on 17-18^th August 2024. This workshop was conducted in collaboration with the National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS). The course featured Prof Narinder Kumar Mehra (Former Dean of AIIMS New Delhi & Emeritus scientist of ICMR), Dr Babu Rao Vundinti (Scientist G, National Institute of Immunohaematology, ICMR Mumbai), and Dr Usha Dutta, PhD, FTAS, Diagnostic Division, Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics, Hyderabad.

Cytogenetic diagnostics involves the study of chromosomes, the thread-like structures containing genetic material whereas Prenatal diagnostics (window into the womb) encompasses various tests conducted during pregnancy to detect potential health issues of the unborn baby.

The workshop was conducted under the visionary leadership of Prof (Dr) Shakti Kumar Gupta, the Executive Director & CEO of AIIMS Jammu. The workshop was inaugurated by a lamp-lighting ceremony, followed by the Saraswati Vandana, which set a reverent tone for the event. In his inaugural address, Prof (Dr) Shakti Gupta highlighted the role of AIIMS Jammu as a leader in medical education and research, emphasizing the Institution’s commitment to providing cutting-edge training and fostering an environment of continuous learning. He lauded the collaborative efforts of the Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology and the Department of Anatomy. He further stressed the necessity of such future workshops in equipping the medical professionals throughout the entire Union territory of Jammu & Kashmir to equip them with the skills required to manage complex genetic disorders.

Over 50 faculty members and residents from various Medical Colleges of different States participated in the Workshop. It featured a series of in-depth sessions, each designed to provide participants with a robust understanding of genetic disorders, their diagnosis, and the intricacies of genetic counselling. Participants engaged in practical exercises under expert supervision to refine their skills in taking detailed family histories—a critical component of effective genetic counselling. Dr Babu Rao provided a comprehensive guide on the infrastructure, equipment, and personnel needed for an effective lab setup, along with essential quality control measures to ensure the accuracy and reliability of genetic tests. The fusion of cytogenetic and prenatal diagnostics heralds a new era in reproductive healthcare, offering expectant parents unparalleled insights into their child’s health. By embracing these innovations, families can make informed choices, fostering a future where every individual receives the best possible start in life.

By bringing together leading experts and fostering hands-on learning, the event significantly enhanced participants’ proficiency in genetic counselling and prenatal diagnosis. AIIMS Jammu remains dedicated to supporting the development of medical professionals and advancing healthcare through innovative training initiatives