Genetic counseling has grown as technology has enabled researchers to identify carriers of harmful alleles and test fetuses for chromosomal abnormalities and some genetic disorders. Genetic counseling can help families with questions about the chances of having additional affected children and can explain prenatal testing about genetic defects. Their roLe is to provide the family seeking help with a realistic view of the situation. If there are decisions to be made the parents can make more informed choices with the facts in hand. Some genetic facilities prefer to have patients and families referred by physicians or other health professionals, but many readily accept self-referred patients.
Prenatal diagnosis of genetic disorders can be made by performing the following tests:
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a) amniocentesis
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b) chorionic villi sampling
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c) ultra sound
Precautionary measures concerning the intake of harmful drugs, alcohol intake and smoking wouLd also be stressed.
Objectives Students will have the opportunities to
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1. Be informed of the dangers and risks that expected mothers face during pregnancy.
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2. To be aware of the prenatal testing techniques.
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3. To learn about the different facilities available for providing genetic counseling.
Approximate time one week.
Suggested Activities
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1. Discussions and/or debates of current issues of genetics from magazines, journals will be encouraged. The following issues can be used as a springboard for class debate:
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i) have students debate the ethical and legal issues involved in surrogate motherhood.
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ii) changing the genetic make-up of an individual. (See article title, “The Telltale Gene”—Consumer Report, July, 1990).