Preventing genetic diseases is a profound expression of concern for future generations.

On February 11, we celebrate World Day of the Sick—a day established on May 13, 1992, with the aim of drawing special attention to those who are sick and infirm. It is a time to reflect on their daily challenges, their need for support and empathy, and their access to modern diagnostics and treatment.

At the oliedu Foundation, we want to use this day to emphasize the immense importance of preventing genetic diseases and supporting patients who—despite their health challenges—dream of safe parenthood and a healthy child.

Genetic Diseases—A Challenge That Often Remains Invisible

Genetic diseases are very often not visible “at first glance.” Often, both parents are healthy carriers of a mutation and are unaware of the risks their offspring may face. It is only through the experience of a child’s severe illness, years of ineffective treatment, recurrent pregnancy losses, or difficulty conceiving that the genetic basis of the problem becomes apparent.

Monogenic diseases include, among others:

  • spinal muscular atrophy (SMA),
  • cystic fibrosis,
  • Duchenne muscular dystrophy,
  • and many other rare, often very severe, and incurable conditions.

Chromosomal abnormalities, such as translocations between chromosomes, can pose an additional problem. They may not only impair fertility but also increase the risk of pregnancy loss or the birth of a child with serious birth defects, often with a very poor prognosis.

In such situations, prevention and modern medicine offer a real chance to break the cycle of suffering.

Preimplantation Genetic Testing—Medicine in the Service of Responsible Parenthood

Advances in medically assisted reproduction techniques now make it possible to prevent the transmission of severe genetic diseases to offspring—where medically justified.

This possibility is provided by preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), which requires the prior use of in vitro fertilization (IVF).

As part of this process, the resulting embryos are screened for a specific severe disease present in the family or for mutations carried by both parents. As a result:

  • mutations responsible for monogenic diseases can be detected,
  • serious chromosomal abnormalities can be identified,
  • and embryos in which no severe mutations were found can be selected for transfer.

Only embryos without detected serious genetic abnormalities are transferred to the mother’s body. This approach significantly reduces the risk of developing severe, often incurable diseases and allows many couples to experience a safe pregnancy.

This is not just a matter of medical technology. Above all, it is a matter of hope.

Prevention is not a luxury—it is a responsibility and a form of support

Preventing genetic diseases does not mean “selection,” but rather a conscious and responsible approach to the health of the future child and the entire family. For many patients, the decision to undergo preimplantation genetic testing is preceded by years of pain, uncertainty, and traumatic experiences.

That is why it is so important to:

  • provide reliable medical information,
  • ensure access to genetic counseling,
  • offer psychological support,
  • and foster social understanding for difficult, often very personal decisions.

Patients affected by genetic diseases need not only modern medical procedures, but also empathy and acceptance. World Day of the Sick reminds us that behind every diagnosis there is a person—with dreams, fears, and hope for the future.

Together for the health of future generations

As we celebrate World Day of the Sick on February 11, let us remember that supporting those struggling with genetic diseases also means caring for future generations.

Modern diagnostics, advances in reproductive medicine, and genetic prevention offer a real chance to reduce suffering and improve the quality of life for many families.

At the OliEdu Foundation, we believe that education, awareness, and access to knowledge are key. The more we know about the prevention of genetic diseases, the more effectively we can support patients on their journey toward safe parenthood.

Join us in promoting responsible prevention and modern medical solutions that bring hope where, until recently, there was none.