KFSHRC partners with Rady Institute for Genetic Screening of Newborns

In a move that could reshape how newborns are screened for genetic disorders, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC) has joined hands with the Rady Children's Institute for Genomic Medicine (RCIGM) in the U.S. The partnership aims to roll out RCIGM's genome-based screening platform in Saudi Arabia, which is capable of identifying more than 500 treatable or preventable genetic diseases from birth.

As KFSHRC's CEO Dr. Björn Zoëga put it, this collaboration "marks a new era for precision medicine in the Kingdom," helping to protect children before symptoms even appear.

How does it work?

At the heart of this collaboration lies a sophisticated genome sequencing system that can detect hundreds of rare diseases within days of a baby's birth. The process involves:

• Collecting genomic data from newborns
• Analyzing that data using RCIGM's advanced bioinformatics tools
• Flagging potential genetic disorders early enough for effective intervention

The partnership also extends to joint clinical research, exploring how genome-based screening affects treatment outcomes and healthcare costs. The two institutions will collaborate on developing globally applicable protocols and designing training programs to upskill Saudi healthcare workers in genetics.

As RCIGM's President, Professor Stephen Kingsmore, noted, "The earlier we identify a condition, the more effectively we can change a child's life trajectory."

Why does it matter?

This collaboration is about more than cutting-edge technology — it's about saving lives and redefining pediatric care. Early detection means that children who might otherwise face lifelong complications could instead receive timely treatments and live healthy lives. The project also boosts Saudi Arabia's position as a regional leader in precision medicine.

For families, it offers something priceless: peace of mind.
Moreover, it represents a significant step toward integrating genomic science into national healthcare systems, thereby bridging the gap between research and real-world practice.

The context

KFSHRC is no stranger to international recognition. Ranked first in the Middle East and North Africa and 15th globally among academic medical centers, it's earned its place among the world's elite. The hospital has also been named the Kingdom's most valuable healthcare brand and listed among Newsweek's "World's Best Smart Hospitals" for 2025.

This new partnership with RCIGM underscores the momentum, placing Saudi Arabia at the forefront of genomic medicine and marking another milestone in the Kingdom's healthcare transformation journey.