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Cupp MA, Adams M, Heys M, Lakhanpaul M, Alexander EC, Milner Y, Huq T, Peachey M, Shah L, Mirza IS, Manikam L. Exploring perceptions of consanguineous unions with women from an East London community: analysis of discussion groups. J Community Genet 2020; 11:225-234. [PMID: 31313096 PMCID: PMC7062959 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-019-00429-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Consanguineous unions are relationships between blood relatives. This study explores the perceptions of consanguineous unions and risk of childhood disability and illness through the reported views and experiences of women in an ethnically diverse London community. This qualitative study utilised group discussions to elicit women's views and experiences. Field notes were recorded by independent note-takers in four group discussions. Field notes were coded manually and independently by two researchers who identified common themes for thematic analysis. Thirty-six women attended, of whom 20 identified as Asian Pakistani. Identified themes included variation in participants' views of consanguineous unions and associated health risks, the value of informed decisions and preferences for information distribution. Although participants had diverse opinions and experiences, they considered risk awareness to be vital for encouraging informed decisions in younger generations. This study highlights the importance of involving the community in efforts to increase awareness around consanguineous unions and genetic risk, emphasising the need for enabling educated choices and the value of co-developing educational efforts with the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan A. Cupp
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1DP UK
- Aceso Global Health Consultants Limited, 3 Abbey Terrace, London, SE2 9EY UK
| | - Mary Adams
- King’s College London, Division of Women and Children’s Health, Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, St Thomas’ Hospital, London, SE1 7HE UK
| | - Michelle Heys
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1DP UK
- East London NHS Foundation Trust, Trust Headquarters, 9 Alie Street, London, E1 8DE UK
| | - Monica Lakhanpaul
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1DP UK
- Whittington NHS Trust, Magdala Avenue, London, N19 5NF UK
| | - Emma C. Alexander
- King’s College London School of Medical Education, Hodgkin Bldg, Newcomen St, London, SE1 1UL UK
| | - Yasmin Milner
- UCL Institute of Epidemiology & Health, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB UK
| | - Tausif Huq
- King’s College London School of Medical Education, Hodgkin Bldg, Newcomen St, London, SE1 1UL UK
| | - Meradin Peachey
- Newham University Hospital, Barts NHS Trust, 30 Guilford Street, London, E13 8SL UK
| | - Lakmini Shah
- Newham University Hospital, Barts NHS Trust, 30 Guilford Street, London, E13 8SL UK
| | - Iram Shazia Mirza
- Newham University Hospital, Barts NHS Trust, 30 Guilford Street, London, E13 8SL UK
| | - Logan Manikam
- Aceso Global Health Consultants Limited, 3 Abbey Terrace, London, SE2 9EY UK
- London Borough of Newham, Newham Dockside, 1000 Dockside Road, London, E16 2QU UK
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Boardman FK, Clark C, Jungkurth E, Young PJ. Social and cultural influences on genetic screening programme acceptability: A mixed-methods study of the views of adults, carriers, and family members living with thalassemia in the UK. J Genet Couns 2020; 29:1026-1040. [PMID: 32114710 PMCID: PMC7754126 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Revised: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
As population‐level carrier screening panels for reprogenetic information emerge globally, conditions to be included, and the timing of implementation is widely debated. Thalassemia is the only condition for which population‐based prenatal carrier screening is offered in the UK. However, little is known about the views and experiences of the UK thalassemia‐affected community toward this screening or other forms of genetic screening for thalassemia (newborn, preconception), despite the range of direct consequences of screening programmes for this group. Using a mixed‐methods integrative analysis (qualitative interviews n = 20 and quantitative survey n = 80), this study outlines the experiences and attitudes of adults with thalassemia, their family members, and screen‐identified thalassemia carriers toward preconception, prenatal, and newborn screening for thalassemia. The majority of participants described thalassemia as a burdensome condition with a range of negative impacts, which contributed to their strong support for screening in all its potential formats. However, the data also highlight the challenges of each screening mode for this group, reflected in the high level of value conflict in participants' accounts and decisions. Cultural, social, and (to a lesser extent) religious factors were found to mitigate against the advantages of early screens, particularly within faith communities. Social stigma emerged as key to this process, informing the way that thalassemia severity was not only perceived, but also experienced by affected adults, which ultimately influenced screening uptake and outcomes. These findings suggest that cultural and social sensitivity is as important as the mode of screening delivery itself, if the iatrogenic and unintended harms of screening—particularly the social/psychological burden of value conflict—are to be adequately addressed and minimized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicity K Boardman
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Corinna Clark
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | | | - Philip J Young
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
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Salway S, Yazici E, Khan N, Ali P, Elmslie F, Thompson J, Qureshi N. How should health policy and practice respond to the increased genetic risk associated with close relative marriage? results of a UK Delphi consensus building exercise. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e028928. [PMID: 31289086 PMCID: PMC6615806 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-028928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES (1) To explore professional and lay stakeholder views on the design and delivery of services in the area of consanguinity and genetic risk. (2) To identify principles on which there is sufficient consensus to warrant inclusion in a national guidance document. (3) To highlight differences of opinion that necessitate dialogue. (4) To identify areas where further research or development work is needed to inform practical service approaches. DESIGN Delphi exercise. Three rounds and one consensus conference. SETTING UK, national, web-based and face-to-face. PARTICIPANTS Recruitment via email distribution lists and professional networks. 42 participants with varied professional and demographic backgrounds contributed to at least one round of the exercise. 29 people participated in statement ranking across both rounds 2 and 3. RESULTS Over 700 individual statements were generated in round 1 and consolidated into 193 unique statements for ranking in round 2, with 60% achieving 80% or higher agreement. In round 3, 74% of statements achieved 80% or higher agreement. Consensus conference discussions resulted in a final set of 148 agreed statements, providing direction for both policy-makers and healthcare professionals. 13 general principles were agreed, with over 90% agreement on 12 of these. Remaining statements were organised into nine themes: national level leadership and coordination, local level leadership and coordination, training and competencies for healthcare and other professionals, genetic services, genetic literacy, primary care, referrals and coordination, monitoring and evaluation and research. Next steps and working groups were also identified. CONCLUSIONS There is high agreement among UK stakeholders on the general principles that should shape policy and practice responses in this area: equity of access, cultural competence, coordinated inter-agency working, co-design and empowerment and embedded evaluation. The need for strong national leadership to ensure more efficient sharing of knowledge and promotion of more equitable and consistent responses across the country is emphasised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Salway
- Department of Sociological Studies, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Edanur Yazici
- Department of Sociological Studies, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Nasaim Khan
- Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, St Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Parveen Ali
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Frances Elmslie
- South West Thames Regional Genetics Service, St George’s University Hospitals, London, UK
| | - Julia Thompson
- Children and Young People’s Public Health Team, Sheffield City Council, Sheffield, UK
| | - Nadeem Qureshi
- Division of Primary Care, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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Ali PA, Salway S, Such E, Dearden A, Willox M. Enhancing health literacy through co-design: development of culturally appropriate materials on genetic risk and customary consanguineous marriage. Prim Health Care Res Dev 2019; 20:e2. [PMID: 29642973 PMCID: PMC6476369 DOI: 10.1017/s1463423618000038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Revised: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 12/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
AimTo develop a simple health literacy intervention aimed at supporting informed reproductive choice among members of UK communities practising customary consanguineous marriage. BACKGROUND: The contribution of 'health literacy' to reducing health inequalities and improving primary health-care efficiency is increasingly recognised. Enhancing genetic literacy has received particular attention recently. Consanguineous marriage is customarily practised among some UK minority ethnic communities and carries some increased risk of recessive genetic disorders among offspring compared with unions among unrelated partners. The need to enhance genetic literacy on this issue has been highlighted, but no national response has ensued. Instead, a range of undocumented local responses are emerging. Important knowledge gaps remain regarding how the development and implementation of culturally appropriate, effective and sustainable responses can be achieved. METHODS: Our co-design approach involved active participation by local people. Initial insight generation employed six focus group discussions and 14 individual interviews to describe current understandings and information needs. A total of 11 personas (heuristic narrative portraits of community 'segments') resulted; four participatory workshops provided further understanding of: preferred information channels; feasible information conveyance; and responses to existing materials. Prototype information resources were then developed and feedback gathered via two workshops. Following further refinement, final feedback from health-care professionals and community members ensured accuracy and appropriateness.FindingsThe project demonstrated the utility of co-design for addressing an issue often considered complex and sensitive. With careful planning and orchestration, active participation by diverse community members was achieved. Key learning included: the importance of establishing trusting and respectful relationships; responding to diversity within the community; and engendering a creative and enjoyable experience. The resultant materials were heavily shaped by local involvement. Evaluative work is now needed to assess impacts on knowledge and service uptake. Longer term sustainability will depend on whether innovative community-level work is accompanied by broader strategy including investment in services and professional development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parveen Azam Ali
- Lecturer, The School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Sarah Salway
- Professor of Public Health, Health Equity & Inclusion Research Group, School of Health & Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Elizabeth Such
- Research Fellow, Health Equity & Inclusion Research Group, School of Health & Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Andrew Dearden
- Professor of Interactive Systems Design, Cultural Communication and Computing Research Institute (C3RI), Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - Matt Willox
- Design Researcher, Design Futures, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
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Hann KEJ, Ali N, Gessler S, Fraser LSM, Side L, Waller J, Sanderson SC, Lanceley A. Attitudes towards a programme of risk assessment and stratified management for ovarian cancer: a focus group study of UK South Asians' perspectives. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e021782. [PMID: 30021754 PMCID: PMC6059306 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-021782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Population-based risk assessment, using genetic testing and the provision of appropriate risk management, could lead to prevention, early detection and improved clinical management of ovarian cancer (OC). Previous research with mostly white British participants found positive attitudes towards such a programme. The current study aimed to explore the attitudes of South Asian (SA) women and men in the UK with the aim of identifying how best to implement such a programme to minimise distress and maximise uptake. DESIGN Semistructured qualitative focus group discussions. SETTING Community centres across North London and Luton. PARTICIPANTS 49 women and 13 men who identified as SA (Indian, Pakistani or Bangladeshi), which constitutes the largest non-European ethnic minority group in the UK. METHODS Seven community-based focus groups were held. Group discussions were transcribed verbatim, coded and analysed thematically. RESULTS Awareness and knowledge of OC symptoms and specific risk factors was low. The programme was acceptable to most participants and attitudes to it were generally positive. Participants' main concerns related to receiving a high-risk result following the genetic test. Younger women may be more cautious of genetic testing, screening or risk-reducing surgery due to the importance of marriage and childbearing in their SA cultures. CONCLUSIONS A crucial first step to enable implementation of population-based genetic risk assessment and management in OC is to raise awareness of OC within SA communities. It will be important to engage with the SA community early on in programme implementation to address their specific concerns and to ensure culturally tailored decision support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie E J Hann
- Department of Women’s Cancer, EGA UCL Institute for Women’s Health, University College London, London, UK
- Health Psychology Research Unit, Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham, UK
| | - Nasreen Ali
- Institute for Health Research, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, UK
| | - Sue Gessler
- Department of Women’s Cancer, EGA UCL Institute for Women’s Health, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Lucy Side
- Department of Women’s Cancer, EGA UCL Institute for Women’s Health, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Clinical Genetics, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Jo Waller
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, University College London, London, UK
| | - Saskia C Sanderson
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK
| | - Anne Lanceley
- Department of Women’s Cancer, EGA UCL Institute for Women’s Health, University College London, London, UK
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Holtkamp KCA, Mathijssen IB, Lakeman P, van Maarle MC, Dondorp WJ, Henneman L, Cornel MC. Factors for successful implementation of population-based expanded carrier screening: learning from existing initiatives. Eur J Public Health 2017; 27:372-377. [PMID: 27485720 PMCID: PMC5421354 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckw110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Carrier screening for autosomal recessive disorders aims to facilitate reproductive decision-making by identifying couples with a 1-in-4 risk in every pregnancy of having an affected child. Except for a few countries or regions, carrier screening is not widely offered and is mostly ancestry-based. Technological advances enable carrier screening for multiple diseases simultaneously allowing universal screening regardless of ancestry (population-based expanded carrier screening). It is important to study how this can be successfully implemented. This study therefore aims to identify critical factors involved in successful implementation, from a user perspective, by learning from already implemented initiatives. Methods: Factors associated with successful implementation were identified by: (i) a literature review and (ii) two case studies; studying experiences with carrier screening in two high-risk communities (a Dutch founder population and the Ashkenazi Jewish population), including a survey among community members. Results: Factors identified were familiarity with (specific) genetic diseases and its availability, high perceived benefits of screening (e.g. screening avoids much suffering), acceptance of reproductive options, perceived risk of being a carrier and low perceived social barriers (e.g. stigmatization). In contrast to the Jewish community, the initial demand for screening in the Dutch founder population did not entirely come from the community itself. However, the large social cohesion of the community facilitated the implementation process. Conclusion: To ensure successful implementation of population-based expanded carrier screening, efforts should be made to increase knowledge about genetic diseases, create awareness and address personal benefits of screening in a non-directive way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim C A Holtkamp
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section of Community Genetics and EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Inge B Mathijssen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Phillis Lakeman
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Merel C van Maarle
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wybo J Dondorp
- Department of Health, Ethics & Society, Research Institutes CAPHRI and GROW, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Lidewij Henneman
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section of Community Genetics and EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martina C Cornel
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section of Community Genetics and EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Best S, Rosser E, Bajaj M. Fifteen years of genetic testing from a London developmental clinic. Arch Dis Child 2017; 102:1014-1018. [PMID: 28659270 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2017-312739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2017] [Revised: 05/22/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate genetic disease among children referred to a community paediatric clinic. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING Community paediatric clinic, Tower Hamlets, London. PATIENTS All patients seen for first time in the Child Development Team (CDT) clinic between 1999 and 2013. INTERVENTIONS Clinical notes were reviewed. Genetic test results were obtained. Exploratory Excel analysis was performed. Patients without an identified genetic disorder were labelled 'more likely genetic cause' if they had at least two out of three risk factors: developmental delay, congenital abnormality or parental consanguinity, and 'unlikely genetic cause' if they had one or no risk factors, or an obvious alternative cause. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Prevalence of genetic diagnoses and parental consanguinity, undertaking of genetic tests, predicted likelihood of a genetic cause among unsolved patients. RESULTS 749 patients were included. 404 (53.9%) had undergone genetic testing and 158 of those tested (39.1%) had a confirmed genetic diagnosis. Parental relatedness was documented in 461 patients, of which 128 (27.8%) had first-cousin parents. The number of patients undergoing genetic testing increased over time. Aneuploidies and syndromic/Mendelian disorders were most common. Of the 591 patients without a genetic diagnosis, 29.9% were classified 'more likely genetic cause'. Patients with consanguineous parents were significantly more likely to have a diagnosed genetic disorder than those with non-consanguineous parents (43/128 vs 72/333), particularly an autosomal recessive condition (27/43 vs 6/72). CONCLUSIONS Genetic disease was common and genetic testing is important in evaluating children in this clinic. Consanguinity increases the likelihood of autosomal recessive disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunayna Best
- Community Paediatrics, Wellington Way Centre, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK
| | - Elisabeth Rosser
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK
| | - Monika Bajaj
- Community Paediatrics, Wellington Way Centre, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
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Uphoff EP, Pickett KE, Wright J. Social gradients in health for Pakistani and White British women and infants in two UK birth cohorts. ETHNICITY & HEALTH 2016; 21:452-467. [PMID: 26428034 DOI: 10.1080/13557858.2015.1091442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aims to examine social gradients in low birth weight (LBW), preterm birth, smoking during pregnancy and maternal health for women and infants of Pakistani origin and White British women and infants in the UK. DESIGN The sample included women and singleton infants from the Born in Bradford (BiB) study (n = 8181) and the first sweep of the Millennium Cohort Study (MCS) (n = 8980). Social gradients in health for four measures of socioeconomic status (SES): maternal education, means-tested benefits, financial situation, and occupation of the father were analysed in multivariate regression models adjusting for maternal age and parity. RESULTS For White British mothers and infants in the MCS sample, social gradients in health were observed for at least three out of four measures of SES for each health outcome (p for trend <.01). Similar trends were found for White British mothers and infants in the BiB sample, although these were less likely to be significant. There were few associations between measures of SES and outcomes in the Pakistani samples. The strongest evidence of a social gradient in health for Pakistani women was demonstrated with the self-reported measure of financial situation, in relation to mental health (p for trend <.001 in both cohorts). CONCLUSION This study describes a lack of social gradients in health for Pakistani women and infants and discusses potential explanations for this finding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora P Uphoff
- a Department of Health Sciences , University of York , York , UK
- b Bradford Institute for Health Research (BIHR) , Bradford , UK
| | - Kate E Pickett
- a Department of Health Sciences , University of York , York , UK
- b Bradford Institute for Health Research (BIHR) , Bradford , UK
| | - John Wright
- b Bradford Institute for Health Research (BIHR) , Bradford , UK
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Khan N, Kerr G, Kingston H. Community engagement and education: addressing the needs of South Asian families with genetic disorders. J Community Genet 2016; 7:317-323. [PMID: 27614444 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-016-0278-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2016] [Accepted: 08/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Consanguineous marriage is common among the South Asian heritage community in the UK. While conferring social and cultural benefits, consanguinity is associated with an increased risk of autosomal recessive disorders and an increase in childhood death and disability. We have previously developed a genetic service to address the needs of this community. We report the extension of this service to include community-based initiatives aimed at promoting understanding of genetic issues related to consanguinity and improving access to genetic services. Our approach was to develop integrated clinical, educational and community engagement initiatives that would be sustainable on a long-term basis. The service provided for South Asian families by a specialist genetic counsellor was extended, and a series of genetics education and awareness sessions were provided for a diverse range of frontline healthcare workers. Two community genetic outreach worker posts were established to facilitate the engagement of the local South Asian population with genetics. The education and awareness sessions helped address the lack of genetic knowledge among primary health care professionals and community workers. Engagement initiatives by the genetic outreach worker raised awareness of genetic issues in the South Asian community and families affected by autosomal recessive disorders. All three elements of the extended service generated positive feedback. A three-stranded approach to addressing the needs of consanguineous families affected by autosomal recessive disorders as recommended by the World Health Organisation is suggested to be an acceptable, effective and sustainable approach to delivery of service in the UK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasaim Khan
- Genomic medicine, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK.
| | - Gifford Kerr
- Public Health Medicine, Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, 10 Duke Street, Blackburn, BB2 1DH, UK
| | - Helen Kingston
- Genomic medicine, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
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ENDOGAMY, CONSANGUINITY AND THE HEALTH IMPLICATIONS OF CHANGING MARITAL CHOICES IN THE UK PAKISTANI COMMUNITY. J Biosoc Sci 2016; 49:435-446. [DOI: 10.1017/s0021932016000419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
SummaryThe biraderi (brotherhood) is a long-established, widely prevalent dimension of social stratification in Pakistani communities worldwide. Alongside consanguinity, it offers a route for cementing social solidarities and so has strong socio-biological significance. A detailed breakdown of biraderi affiliation among participants in an ongoing birth cohort study in the northern English city of Bradford is presented. There is historical resilience of intra-biraderi marriage, but with a secular decline in prevalence across all biraderi and considerable reductions in some. While a majority of marriages in all biraderi are consanguineous the prevalence varies, ranging from over 80% to under 60%. In consanguineous unions, first cousin marriages account for more than 50% in five of the fifteen biraderi and >40% in six others. Within-biraderi marriage and consanguinity enhance genetic stratification, thereby increasing rates of genomic homozygosity and the increased expression of recessive genetic disorders. The trends reported constitute putative signals of generational change in the marital choices in this community.
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Salway S, Ali P, Ratcliffe G, Such E, Khan N, Kingston H, Quarrell O. Responding to the increased genetic risk associated with customary consanguineous marriage among minority ethnic populations: lessons from local innovations in England. J Community Genet 2016; 7:215-28. [PMID: 27311843 PMCID: PMC4960028 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-016-0269-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2015] [Accepted: 06/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Populations practising customary consanguineous marriage have a higher incidence of autosomal recessive genetic disorders than those in which reproductive partners are usually unrelated. In the absence of any national-level response, English service developments to address the additional needs of families living with or at risk of such disorders have been locally led. These interventions remain in their infancy here, as elsewhere in Europe, and important questions remain regarding how appropriate, effective and sustainable responses can be operationalised in practice. This formative service review employed four local case studies together with wider consultation exercises over a 4-year period (2011–2015) to document recent responses to this area of need, issues arising and lessons to inform future work. Service components included the following: enhancements to genetic services to provide family-centred, culturally competent approaches to counselling and testing; community genetic literacy approaches; and capacity development among health professionals. Local approaches were, however, very varied in their detail, scope, level of investment and longevity. The provisions of culturally competent genetic counselling services and community-level genetic literacy interventions were generally well received by those who accessed them. Coordinated action across all service components appeared important for an effective service, but healthcare professionals, particularly general practitioners, were often difficult to engage in this agenda. An evaluative culture and engagement in a wider community of practice had supported service development across sites. However, sustaining investment was challenging, particularly where new services were not well integrated into core provision and where commissioning was driven by expectations of short-term reductions in infant mortality and disability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Salway
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), University of Sheffield, Regent Court, 30 Regent Street, Sheffield, S1 4DA, UK.
| | - Parveen Ali
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Sheffield, Barber House Annexe, 3a Clarkehouse Road, Sheffield, S10 2LA, UK
| | | | - Elizabeth Such
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), University of Sheffield, Regent Court, 30 Regent Street, Sheffield, S1 4DA, UK
| | - Nasaim Khan
- Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Saint Mary's Hospital, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
| | - Helen Kingston
- Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Saint Mary's Hospital, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
| | - Oliver Quarrell
- Clinical Genetics Service, Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TH, UK
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Abstract
Consanguineous marriage is a controversial topic in many Western societies, with attention mainly focused on the health of immigrant communities from Asia and Africa. In the UK consanguinity is especially prevalent in the Pakistani community, which now numbers over 1.1 million. Less attention has been paid to the influence of hereditary population stratification within Pakistani communities, in particular biraderi (literally brotherhood) membership, which denotes male lineages that largely govern marriage partner choice and hence the transmission of disease genes. The various roles played by biraderi and their relationship to other socio-occupational and kinship terms, such as caste, quom and zat, are often overlooked in health-based studies. The interchangeable use of these different kinship terms without rigorous definition can create identity uncertainty and hinders inter-study comparisons. Where feasible, standardization of terminology would be both desirable and beneficial, with biraderi the preferred default term to identify specific social and genetic relationships within the Pakistani diaspora.
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13
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A review of consanguinity in Ireland—estimation of frequency and approaches to mitigate risks. Ir J Med Sci 2015; 185:17-28. [DOI: 10.1007/s11845-015-1370-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2015] [Accepted: 10/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Addressing key issues in the consanguinity-related risk of autosomal recessive disorders in consanguineous communities: lessons from a qualitative study of British Pakistanis. J Community Genet 2015; 7:65-79. [PMID: 26363620 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-015-0252-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2015] [Accepted: 06/03/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, there is no consensus regarding services required to help families with consanguineous marriages manage their increased genetic reproductive risk. Genetic services for communities with a preference for consanguineous marriage in the UK remain patchy, often poor. Receiving two disparate explanations of the cause of recessive disorders (cousin marriage and recessive inheritance) leads to confusion among families. Further, the realisation that couples in non-consanguineous relationships have affected children leads to mistrust of professional advice. British Pakistani families at-risk for recessive disorders lack an understanding of recessive disorders and their inheritance. Such an understanding is empowering and can be shared within the extended family to enable informed choice. In a three-site qualitative study of British Pakistanis, we explored family and health professional perspectives on recessively inherited conditions. Our findings suggest, firstly, that family networks hold strong potential for cascading genetic information, making the adoption of a family-centred approach an efficient strategy for this community. However, this is dependent on provision of high-quality and timely information from health care providers. Secondly, families' experience was of ill-coordinated and time-starved services, with few having access to specialist provision from Regional Genetics Services; these perspectives were consistent with health professionals' views of services. Thirdly, we confirm previous findings that genetic information is difficult to communicate and comprehend, further complicated by the need to communicate the relationship between cousin marriage and recessive disorders. A communication tool we developed and piloted is described and offered as a useful resource for communicating complex genetic information.
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Ajaz M, Ali N, Randhawa G. UK Pakistani views on the adverse health risks associated with consanguineous marriages. J Community Genet 2015; 6:331-42. [PMID: 25656351 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-015-0214-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2014] [Accepted: 01/19/2015] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This is a qualitative study exploring the perceptions of members from the Pakistani/Kashmiri community living in Luton, UK, on the adverse health risks associated with consanguineous marriages. Rates of stillbirths and infant mortality are higher than the national average in Luton and the existing evidence base suggests that these higher rates may be associated with consanguinity (especially first cousin marriages) in highly consanguineous populations, such as the Pakistani/Kashmiri ethnic group. This qualitative study included 9 focus groups and 10 one to one in-depth interviews (n = 58) with members from the Pakistani/Kashmiri community in Luton during 2012. Audio-recorded transcripts were analysed using framework analysis. Emerging themes included a limited knowledge, opposition to evidence and need for a more culturally sensitive health services approach. Findings from the focus group and interview discussions indicated that participants had a limited and varied understanding of genetic risk and indicated a lack of discussion within the community regarding genetic risk. They also opposed evidence that may link consanguineous marriages with infant mortality, stillbirth or genetic disorders that led to disability. The participants stressed the need for culturally sensitive and locally constructed services for information on genetic risk and services. These findings may be used to address higher rates of infant mortality and adverse health impacts associated with higher rates of consanguinity in Luton and elsewhere, through a partnership approach, improve upon current services and develop culturally appropriate services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mubasshir Ajaz
- Institute for Health Research, Putteridge Bury Campus, University of Bedfordshire, Hitchin Road, Luton, LU28LE, UK.
| | - Nasreen Ali
- Institute for Health Research, Putteridge Bury Campus, University of Bedfordshire, Hitchin Road, Luton, LU28LE, UK
| | - Gurch Randhawa
- Institute for Health Research, Putteridge Bury Campus, University of Bedfordshire, Hitchin Road, Luton, LU28LE, UK
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Sheridan E, Wright J, Corry P, Oddie S, Small N, Parslow RC. Analysis of the Born in Bradford birth cohort--authors' reply. Lancet 2014; 383:123. [PMID: 24411964 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(14)60020-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eamonn Sheridan
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford, BD9 6RJ, UK; Section of Genetics, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, UK.
| | - John Wright
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford, BD9 6RJ, UK
| | - Peter Corry
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford, BD9 6RJ, UK
| | - Sam Oddie
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford, BD9 6RJ, UK
| | - Neil Small
- School of Health Studies, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK
| | - Roger C Parslow
- Leeds Institute of Genetics, Health and Therapeutics, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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Teeuw ME, Loukili G, Bartels EA, ten Kate LP, Cornel MC, Henneman L. Consanguineous marriage and reproductive risk: attitudes and understanding of ethnic groups practising consanguinity in Western society. Eur J Hum Genet 2013; 22:452-7. [PMID: 23921534 PMCID: PMC3953897 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2013.167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2013] [Revised: 05/27/2013] [Accepted: 06/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Consanguineous couples should be adequately informed about their increased reproductive risk and possibilities for genetic counselling. Information may only be effective if it meets the needs of the target group. This study aimed to gain more insight into: (1) attitudes of people belonging to ethnic groups in Western society towards consanguinity and their understanding of risk for offspring; and (2) their attitudes regarding reproductive information targeted at consanguineous couples. Dutch Moroccans and Turks were invited to complete an online questionnaire by snowball sampling and by placing a link on two popular Dutch Moroccan/Turkish forum websites between September and October 2011. The questionnaire was completed by 201 individuals who were, on average, neither positive nor negative towards consanguinity. Respondents with a consanguineous partner were more positive, estimated the risk for the offspring lower and were less positive about the provision of risk information to consanguineous couples when compared with respondents without a consanguineous partner. Participants of Turkish origin had a more negative attitude towards consanguinity and estimated the reproductive risk higher than Moroccan participants. More than half of the respondents thought that information should be given before marriage, whereas only 10% thought it should never be provided. The general practitioner was most often mentioned (54%) as the designated professional to inform people. Information about genetic risks related to consanguinity should be offered early, preferably before marriage. The diversity of the target population requires various strategies to disseminate information and reach consanguineous couples with the offer of genetic counselling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marieke E Teeuw
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section Community Genetics and EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ghariba Loukili
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section Community Genetics and EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Edien Ac Bartels
- Department of Social and Cultural Anthropology VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Leo P ten Kate
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section Community Genetics and EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martina C Cornel
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section Community Genetics and EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lidewij Henneman
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section Community Genetics and EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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