Introduction

As we enter the twenty first century, we carry with us the burden of genetic diseases - including single gene, chromosomal, multifactorial and mitochondrial disorders. Considerable number of births are affected with an associated disability. The conception of Human Genome Project a decade ago and the remarkable progress made hitherto, have opened new avenues for diagnosis, treatment and prevention of genetic disorders. Gene transfer and gene manipulation technology are fast growing and we may not be too far from an era when it will be possible to substitute a normal gene in place of a defective one, or to switch-on the functions of a silent gene. With the cloning of 'Dolly', and subsequent interventions into genome manipulation, new concepts are developing that may have an outreaching impact on various aspects of life of the individuals and conduct of the community.

This conference is organised with the major aim to provide a forum for expects from all over the world to enrich the knowledge of geneticists and other health professionals in the field of genetics, to enhance awareness and highlight the latest strides made in the Human Genome and related projects.

The conference will highlight pros and cons of the advances made in the field of human genetics and their practical application and implication. Expertise working in the field in the USA, Europe and the Arab world, local, national and regional experts will be invited to participate in the conference. Information on the latest situation in the Arab world and the East Mediterranean region will be debated. Members of the community will be able to interact with the scientific/medical/social media and express their points of views.

It is with great pleasure we welcome the collaboration with Middle East Genetic Association of America (MEGA) to hold the 3rd MEGA meeting for year 2001 in conjunction with the genetic conference.

Dear Colleagues,

It is with great pleasure inform you that King Saud University in collaboration with Middle East Genetic Association of America (MEGA), is organising the "Genetics in Health and Disease - Status, Implicit and Implications for Individuals and Community" Symposium.

Keeping in view the significance of genetic to the health of individuals, families and community as a whole, this symposium, will cover the latest strides made in the field with relevance to all members of the community.

I, on behalf of the organising committee, would like to invite you to attend this symposium, participate by informing us of your own experience, learn about the latest achievements made in the Human Genome research, and its implications to diagnosis and management of genetic diseases. Special sessions will be held for the patients, families and community members to update them with the latest information on care and prevention of genetic disorders. With this aim in mind, I also invite patients, their families, interested members of community at large, to attend this symposium. and update us on their own experiences and views of relevance.

I would also like to invite agents and companies to make use of this occasion and participate by exhibiting their products and highlight their services to medical profession.

I look forward to seeing you in Riyadh in April 2001 and promise those coming from abroad an experience of a life time when they visit the Holy cities of Makkah and Madina and features of Riyadh and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Please register early and contribute to the success of this memorable occasion.

Chairman, Organizing Committee