Q: What are the diagnostic tests that need to be done prior to marriage?

A:Many countries mandate by law that couples planning to marry undergo pre-marital testing, but it is not so in India. This is done to identify and reduce the risk of genetically transmitted disorders (like thalassaemia and other haemoglobinopathies) though some countries also include tests to exclude sexually transmitted diseases, rubella, hepatitis, etc. What tests should be done depend on the prevalence of genetic disorders in the community or a family history of such disease in the couple. The risks and benefits accruing from such testing too need to be known. It also depends on an individuals personal choice as people may like to be tested for diabetes, high blood levels of fat, heart disease, thyroid disease, cancer, etc. It is best for the couple to get a medical examination done so that the physician is guided by the history and clinical findings to order the appropriate tests.