🧭 Preparation & choosing a spouse · #25
Should we take a thalassaemia or genetic test before marrying?
It is strongly encouraged even though not compulsory in every state, because it can avoid the risk of serious genetic disease in children.
Thalassaemia is fairly common in Malaysia; if both partners are carriers, each pregnancy carries a risk of a child with thalassaemia major. A simple blood test can be done at a health clinic. A carrier result does not forbid the marriage — it gives information for decision-making and planning, such as genetic counselling. Islam tells us to take precautions and prevent harm; the Prophet ﷺ also told us to keep away from sources of contagious disease. Couples who are close relatives have even more reason to do it. Consult a health clinic and the States page.
Thalassaemia is fairly common in Malaysia; if both partners are carriers, each pregnancy carries a risk of a child with thalassaemia major. A simple blood test can be done at a health clinic. A carrier result does not forbid the marriage — it gives information for decision-making and planning, such as genetic counselling. Islam tells us to take precautions and prevent harm; the Prophet ﷺ also told us to keep away from sources of contagious disease. Couples who are close relatives have even more reason to do it. Consult a health clinic and the States page.
Sources
Surah al-Baqarah 2:195Sahih al-Bukhari 5707narrated by Ibn Majah (hasan) — la darar wa la dirar