Informed Consent for Genetic Testing

NAWA's genetic tests are carrier and compatibility screening intended to help couples understand inherited genetic risks before marriage or before starting a family. They are not diagnostic tests.

The test uses a biological sample (typically blood, drawn from the inner side of the elbow) collected under professional supervision. DNA is extracted and analysed in an accredited laboratory by Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) on a next-generation sequencing (NGS) platform, reading the ~20,000 protein-coding genes to detect variants associated with inherited conditions. Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) is available on request as a separately priced option covering the full genome beyond the exome.

• It can identify whether you carry certain genetic variants included in the test panel.
• It cannot detect variants outside the tested panel or variants not yet described in scientific literature.
• It cannot guarantee a healthy pregnancy or a healthy child, and does not replace prenatal care.
• Some findings may be variants of uncertain significance (VUS) whose clinical meaning is not yet fully understood.
• In rare cases, the test may reveal incidental findings unrelated to the primary reason for testing.

• Non-carrier: no relevant variant identified in the tested panel.
• Carrier: one relevant variant identified; typically not associated with disease in you personally.
• Couple at increased risk: both partners carry variants in the same gene, which may increase risk for future children.
• Variant of uncertain significance: a variant whose meaning cannot be classified with current knowledge.

Genetic results can carry emotional weight and may reveal information relevant to blood relatives. NAWA strongly recommends reviewing results with a qualified genetic counsellor before making reproductive, marital, or family decisions. You are free to decide whether and how to share your results with your partner or family.

Participation is entirely voluntary. You may withdraw your consent and cancel the service at any time before laboratory analysis begins. Once the Sample has entered laboratory processing, the analysis may not be reversible, but you can still ask us to stop future storage or use of your data, subject to legal record-keeping obligations.

Your genetic data and Report are stored securely in accordance with our Privacy Policy and applicable Saudi regulations. Biological Samples are retained only as long as necessary to complete the test and any required reanalysis, then destroyed under laboratory protocols. De-identified data may be used internally for quality assurance. Your identifiable data will not be used for research without a separate written consent.

NAWA shares results only with:

• You (and, in couple reports, your partner, only where both partners have consented).
• Authorised clinicians and genetic counsellors involved in your case.
• Regulators or courts where legally required.

NAWA will not share your genetic information with employers, insurers, or marketers.

The test does not diagnose any disease and does not substitute for medical care. A negative result does not eliminate all genetic risk, and a positive result does not mean disease is certain to occur.

The fee is charged for performing the Service (sample handling, laboratory analysis, reporting, and counselling where included). Payment is independent of the specific outcome of the test.

I confirm that I have read and understood this Informed Consent document, the Privacy Policy, and the Terms & Conditions. I voluntarily consent to the collection and analysis of my biological Sample, the processing of my genetic and health data, and the sharing of my results as described above. I understand that the test is a screening test, not a diagnostic test, and that it does not guarantee a healthy child. By purchasing a genetic-testing service from NAWA I confirm this consent.

Before completing your booking, feel free to contact a NAWA specialist for any question about the test, the process, or how your data is handled: email contact@nawa.com.sa or call +966 55 061 3902.