oa Understanding Families and Communities Hold the Key of Implementing New Technologies

Over the past few years, GCC countries have witnessed remarkable social and economic growth, which is best reflected in their well-organized and efficient health care systems. With these achievements, a shift in the pattern of disease has become evident. There has been a change in a disease pattern with a falling incidence of communicable diseases, decrease of mortality and morbidity rates of infants and children and a rise in noncommunicable conditions.

Families in GCC states can benefit from new genetic approaches, but these need to be designed to conform with the community beliefs and culture. Presently, GCC communities need help in coping with the changes and challenges that genetic knowledge brings to their lives.

Understanding social beliefs, respect of the traditions set up in an Islamic community, and understanding the psychological difficulties faced by families are essential for acceptance of new technological advances. The difficulties faced by families and proposed solutions are discussed.