Putin instructed to develop testing for genetic risks for parents

Russian President Vladimir Putin has instructed to submit proposals on the development and application of genetic testing for prospective parents to assess the risks of hereditary diseases in a child. This follows from a document published on January 24 on the Kremlin website.

"Taking into account previously given instructions to submit proposals on the phased expansion of the neonatal screening program in terms of the development and application of molecular genetic screening programs for future parents when planning pregnancy in order to identify the risk of certain diseases and conditions, including orphan diseases," the Russian leader's instruction reads.

The task was assigned to the Russian government and regional authorities. The head of state will expect proposals until May 15, 2025.

Earlier, on December 31, 2024, Putin instructed the government together with the Bank of Russia and regional authorities in new national projects in 2025 to pay special attention to measures to improve demography and increase the birth rate.