Genetic testing for prospective parents has become free in Russia. Starting this year, testing for monogenic diseases and structural chromosomal rearrangements has been incorporated into the free medical care program, announced Natalia Dolgushina, the chief freelance specialist of the Ministry of Health for women’s reproductive health.
“Preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic disorders (PGT-M) and for structural chromosomal rearrangements (PGT-SR) is conducted within assisted reproductive technology programs, and it is recommended to prescribe them to patients with a high risk of having children with hereditary diseases. Starting in 2026, PGT-M and PGT-SR have been included in the state guarantee program for free medical care,” she stated.
It was previously reported that Russian authorities intend to implement molecular-genetic screening programs for parents during pregnancy planning. The Ministry of Health has been appointed as responsible for executing this task. The department must develop and submit corresponding proposals within this year.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Health plans to expand the neonatal screening program by including two more diseases — aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase deficiency (AADC deficiency) and X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy.
