HYDERABAD: A day after doctors at Care Hospital in the city had successfully performed a rare heart surgery on a fetus, the Institute of Genetics and Genetic Diseases of Osmania University marked the ‘World Fetus Day’ here on Friday.
With the aim of spreading awareness about fetus safety, the institute also organised a seminar on ‘Healthy Fetus Makes Wealthy Nation’, which saw the participation of experts in fetal medicine, doctors and social workers.
National Commission for Protection of Child Rights chairperson Shanta Sinha, who was the chief guest at the seminar, said, “Fetus should be given equal attention and care as the newborn.”
Institute of Genetics director A Jyoti said that one in every 1,000 babies born in India had genetic disorders. But at least 70 percent of them can be cured even before the baby is born if proper medication is given basing on prior tests. “Most of the genetic disorders of fetus can be cured only while it is in the womb as they grow more complex after the baby is born.” she added.
Dr Vijaya Chander Reddy, president of Indian Medical Association, called for establishment of more institutes of genetics in the country.