The medical application of genetics is integral to the improvement of human health. Each year, about 6% of the world-wide total births are children born with birth defects of genetic or partially genetic origin. Serious birth defects and genetic disorders can be lethal and for those who survive, these disorders can cause a life-long mental, physical, auditory or visual disability. Experience from several countries show that up to 70% of birth defects can be either prevented, or the severity of the ensuing disability can be reduced.

The Shafallah Medical Genetics Center is a world-class, state-of-the-art human genetics center that provides high quality genetic diagnostic services, community-based and professional genetic education and attractive opportunities to conduct human genetic research. The center also provide the background information for the development of public policy, regarding prevention of birth defects or the reduction of their toll on the families and community.

The long-term goal of the Shafallah Medical Genetics Center is to develop into a national independent provider of comprehensive and integrated genetic health-care services and a model in the Middle East and the world.