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Ladak Z, Grewal N, Kim MO, Small S, Leber A, Hemani M, Sun Q, Hamza DM, Laur C, Ivers NM, Falenchuk O, Volpe R. Equity in prenatal healthcare services globally: an umbrella review. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2024; 24:191. [PMID: 38468220 PMCID: PMC10926563 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-024-06388-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Timely, appropriate, and equitable access to quality healthcare during pregnancy is proven to contribute to better health outcomes of birthing individuals and infants following birth. Equity is conceptualized as the absence of differences in healthcare access and quality among population groups. Healthcare policies are guides for front-line practices, and despite merits of contemporary policies striving to foster equitable healthcare, inequities persist. The purpose of this umbrella review is to identify prenatal healthcare practices, summarize how equities/inequities are reported in relation to patient experiences or health outcomes when accessing or using services, and collate equity reporting characteristics. METHODS For this umbrella review, six electronic databases were searched (Medline, EMBASE, APA PsychInfo, CINAHL, International Bibliography of the Social Sciences, and Cochrane Library). Included studies were extracted for publication and study characteristics, equity reporting, primary outcomes (prenatal care influenced by equity/inequity) and secondary outcomes (infant health influenced by equity/inequity during pregnancy). Data was analyzed deductively using the PROGRESS-Plus equity framework and by summative content analysis for equity reporting characteristics. The included articles were assessed for quality using the Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for Systematic Reviews. RESULTS The search identified 8065 articles and 236 underwent full-text screening. Of the 236, 68 systematic reviews were included with first authors representing 20 different countries. The population focus of included studies ranged across prenatal only (n = 14), perinatal (n = 25), maternal (n = 2), maternal and child (n = 19), and a general population (n = 8). Barriers to equity in prenatal care included travel and financial burden, culturally insensitive practices that deterred care engagement and continuity, and discriminatory behaviour that reduced care access and satisfaction. Facilitators to achieve equity included innovations such as community health workers, home visitation programs, conditional cash transfer programs, virtual care, and cross-cultural training, to enhance patient experiences and increase their access to, and use of health services. There was overlap across PROGRESS-Plus factors. CONCLUSIONS This umbrella review collated inequities present in prenatal healthcare services, globally. Further, this synthesis contributes to future solution and action-oriented research and practice by assembling evidence-informed opportunities, innovations, and approaches that may foster equitable prenatal health services to all members of diverse communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeenat Ladak
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
- Women's College Hospital Institute for Health System Solutions & Virtual Care, Toronto, Canada.
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Qiuyu Sun
- University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | | | - Celia Laur
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Women's College Hospital Institute for Health System Solutions & Virtual Care, Toronto, Canada
| | - Noah M Ivers
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Women's College Hospital Institute for Health System Solutions & Virtual Care, Toronto, Canada
- Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Canada
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Abstract
This research evaluates the prevalence of inadequate folate status in early pregnancy, the pattern of prenatal folic acid (FA) supplementation and associated factors in Spanish pregnant women from the ECLIPSES study, which included 791 participants prior gestational week 12. A cross-sectional evaluation of erythrocyte folate levels was performed at recruitment and used to calculate the prevalence of folate deficiency (erythrocyte folate < 340 nmol/l) and insufficiency (erythrocyte folate < 906 nmol/l). Sociodemographic and lifestyle data as well as information on prenatal FA supplementation were recorded. Descriptive and multivariate statistical analyses were performed. The prevalence of folate deficiency and insufficiency were 9·6 % and 86·5 %, respectively. Most of women used prenatal FA supplements, but only 6·3 % did so as recommended. Supplementation with FA during the periconceptional period abolished folate deficiency and reduced folate insufficiency. Prenatal FA supplementation with ≥1000 µg/d in periconceptional time and pregnancy planning increased erythrocyte folate levels. The main risk factor for folate insufficiency in early pregnancy was getting prenatal FA supplementation out of the periconceptional time (OR 3·32, 95 % CI 1·02, 15·36), while for folate deficiency they were young age (OR 2·02, 95 % CI 1·05, 3·99), and smoking (OR 2·39, 95 % CI 1·30, 4·37). In addition, social and ethnic differences according to folate status were also identified. As conclusion, periconceptional FA use is crucial for achieving optimal folate levels in early pregnancy. Pregnancy planning should focus on young women, smokers, those with low consumption of folate-rich foods, low socio-economic status or from ethnic minorities.
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Sim WS, Yeo SH, Choi C, Yeo TW, Lee JJ, Huynh VA, Finkelstein EA, Ozdemir S. Preferences for a non‐invasive prenatal test as first‐line screening for Down Syndrome: A discrete choice experiment. Prenat Diagn 2022; 42:1368-1376. [DOI: 10.1002/pd.6239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wen Shan Sim
- Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital 100 Bukit Timah Road Singapore Singapore229899
- Antenatal Diagnostic Centre KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital 100 Bukit Timah Road Singapore Singapore229899
| | - Seow Heong Yeo
- Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital 100 Bukit Timah Road Singapore Singapore229899
| | - Christina Choi
- Antenatal Diagnostic Centre KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital 100 Bukit Timah Road Singapore Singapore229899
| | - Tai Wai Yeo
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital 100 Bukit Timah Road Singapore Singapore229899
| | - Jia Jia Lee
- Signature Programme in Health Services and Systems Research Duke‐NUS Medical School 8 College Road Singapore Singapore169857
| | - Vinh Anh Huynh
- Signature Programme in Health Services and Systems Research Duke‐NUS Medical School 8 College Road Singapore Singapore169857
| | - Eric Andrew Finkelstein
- Signature Programme in Health Services and Systems Research Duke‐NUS Medical School 8 College Road Singapore Singapore169857
- Duke Global Health Institute Duke University 310 Trent Drive Durham NC USA27710
| | - Semra Ozdemir
- Signature Programme in Health Services and Systems Research Duke‐NUS Medical School 8 College Road Singapore Singapore169857
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health National University of Singapore 12 Science Drive Singapore Singapore117549
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Kancherla V, Roos N, Walani SR. Relationship between achieving Sustainable Development Goals and promoting optimal care and prevention of birth defects globally. Birth Defects Res 2022; 114:773-784. [PMID: 35776686 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.2055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Revised: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Birth defects affect eight million newborns annually worldwide. About 8% of global under-5 mortality is attributable to birth defects. The United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have set 17 global goals for human growth and development to be achieved by 2030 using multi-sectorial approaches. The third goal (SDG-3) focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being; achieving SDG-3 improves birth defects care and prevention. However, we aimed to show how achieving other SDGs also influence optimal care and prevention of birth defects. SDGs focused on poverty reduction, access to nutritious food, universal health coverage, equitable education, gender equality, environment, inclusivity through infrastructure innovation, and strengthening social justice is crucial to addressing social determinants of health for individuals and families affected by birth defects. Understanding birth defects in the context of several relevant SDGs will allow practitioners, researchers, and policymakers to leverage the momentum generated by SDGs and make a case for commitment and allocation of funding and resources for advancing birth defects surveillance, care, and prevention. SDGs are built on principles of equity and social justice and we urge policy-makers to approach birth defects using various SDGs as a catalyst. The synergy between several SDGs helps to optimize birth defect outcomes and prevention. Our effort to present a more comprehensive look at various SDGs and their relationship with birth defects is parallel to several other health advocacy groups conducting a similar mapping exercise, thus bringing to the forefront millions of lives that are impacted by birth defects worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijaya Kancherla
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Nathalie Roos
- Clinical Epidemiology Division, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Koopmanschap I, Martin L, Gitsels - van der Wal JT, Suurmond J. Counselling for prenatal anomaly screening to migrant women in the Netherlands: An interview study of primary care midwives’ perceived barriers with client–midwife communication. Eur J Midwifery 2022; 6:29. [PMID: 35633755 PMCID: PMC9118623 DOI: 10.18332/ejm/147911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Large ethnic inequalities exist in the prenatal screening offer, counselling, informed decision-making, and uptake of prenatal anomaly tests. More insight into midwives’ experiences with offering prenatal counselling to migrant women may provide better insight into the origins and consequences of these ethnic inequalities. METHODS We conducted interviews with 12 midwives certified as counsellors for prenatal anomaly screening for women they identified as migrants. Interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Midwives reported most difficulties in communicating with women of ‘non-western migrant background’, which include first- and second-generation migrants from Africa, Latin-America, Asia, and Turkey. They experienced barriers in communication related to linguistics, health literacy, sociocultural and religious differences, with midwife stereotyping affecting all three aspects of counselling: health education, decision-making support, and the client–midwife relation. Health education was difficult because of language barriers and low health-literacy of clients, decision-making support was hampered by sociocultural and religious midwife–client differences, and client–midwife relations were under pressure due to sociocultural and religious midwife–client differences and midwife stereotyping. CONCLUSIONS Barriers to optimal communication seem to contribute to suboptimal counselling, especially for women of ‘non-western migrant background’. Client–midwife communication thus potentially adds to the ethnic disparities observed in the offer of and informed decision-making about prenatal anomaly screening in the Netherlands. The quality of prenatal counselling for women from all ethnic backgrounds might be improved by addressing linguistic, health literacy, sociocultural and religious barriers in future training and continuing education of prenatal counsellors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Koopmanschap
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, Department of Public and Occupational Health, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Linda Martin
- Department of Midwifery Science, Academy Midwifery Amsterdam and Groningen (AVAG), Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Janneke T. Gitsels - van der Wal
- Department of Midwifery Science, Academy Midwifery Amsterdam and Groningen (AVAG), Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jeanine Suurmond
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, Department of Public and Occupational Health, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Evaluating for disparities in prenatal genetic counseling. Am J Obstet Gynecol MFM 2021; 4:100494. [PMID: 34583054 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajogmf.2021.100494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Guidelines recommend that all pregnant women should be offered prenatal genetic counseling, which includes discussions of aneuploidy and carrier screening. Previous studies have demonstrated racial and ethnic disparities in the completion of prenatal genetic testing, but few studies have evaluated for disparities in the offering of these tests. Prenatal genetic screening is a covered provision of Colorado Medicaid. We hypothesized that in the absence of a financial barrier, disparities in prenatal genetic counseling would be eliminated. OBJECTIVE To evaluate disparities in prenatal genetic counseling by directly assessing if patients received counseling at the time of their first prenatal visit. STUDY DESIGN This retrospective cross-sectional study included patients presenting for their first prenatal visit at <20 weeks' gestation. Patients who completed prenatal genetic testing were classified as counseled, and the remaining patients' medical records were reviewed. Moreover, patients were divided into 2 groups based on their counseling status (yes or no), separately for aneuploidy and carrier screening. RESULTS Of 1103 patients who met the inclusion criteria, 97.2% were counseled for aneuploidy screening, whereas 73.3% were counseled on carrier screening. For aneuploidy, younger age, Black race, a relationship status of single, and presentation at a later gestational age were associated with lack of aneuploidy counseling on univariate analysis. After multivariable analysis, only maternal age (odds ratio, 1.09; 95% confidence interval, 1.01-1.19) and gestational age (odds ratio, 0.84; 95% confidence interval, 0.76-0.93) were statistically significantly associated with aneuploidy counseling. Treatment by a physician care team, having a comorbidity score of ≥1, and presenting at a later gestational age were associated with not receiving carrier screening counseling (univariate analysis). Multivariable analysis indicated significant associations with gestational age (odds ratio, 0.90; 95% confidence interval, 0.86-0.94) and having a comorbidity (odds ratio, 0.72; 95% confidence interval, 0.55-0.94). CONCLUSION Prenatal genetic counseling was less likely to be provided to women who present for prenatal care at a later gestational age. This finding was of concern because women who are less privileged were more likely to present to prenatal care at a later gestational age. Providing access to early prenatal care and developing specialized care pathways for women entering prenatal care in the second trimester of pregnancy could address disparities in prenatal genetic counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Dodds
- School for Policy Studies, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Ibidun Fakoya
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
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Bishop DVM, Brookman-Byrne A, Gratton N, Gray E, Holt G, Morgan L, Morris S, Paine E, Thornton H, Thompson PA. Language phenotypes in children with sex chromosome trisomies. Wellcome Open Res 2019; 3:143. [PMID: 30815537 PMCID: PMC6376256 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.14904.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Sex chromosome trisomies (47,XXX, 47,XXY and 47,XYY) are known to be a risk factor for language disorder, but it is hard to predict outcomes, because many cases are identified only when problems are found. Methods We recruited children aged 5-16 years with all three types of trisomy, and divided them into a High Bias group, identified in the course of investigations for neurodevelopmental problems, and a Low Bias group, identified via prenatal screening or other medical investigations. Children from a twin sample were used to compare pattern and severity of language problems: they were subdivided according to parental concerns about language/history of speech-language therapy into a No Concerns group (N = 118) and a Language Concerns group (N = 57). Children were assessed on a psychometric battery and a standardized parent checklist. After excluding children with intellectual disability, autism or hearing problems, the sample included 28 XXX, 18 XXY and 14 XYY Low Bias cases and 7 XXX, 13 XXY and 17 XYY High Bias cases. Results Variation within each trisomy group was substantial: within the Low Bias group, overall language scores were depressed relative to normative data, but around one third had no evidence of problems. There was no effect of trisomy type, and the test profile was similar to the Language Concerns comparison group. The rate of problems was much greater in the High Bias children with trisomies. Conclusions When advising parents after discovery of a trisomy, it is important to emphasise that, though there is an increased risk of language problems, there is a very wide range of outcomes. Severe language problems are more common in those identified via genetic testing for neurodevelopmental problems but these are not characteristic of children identified on prenatal screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothy V. M. Bishop
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxon, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Annie Brookman-Byrne
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxon, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Nikki Gratton
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxon, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Elaine Gray
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxon, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Georgina Holt
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxon, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Louise Morgan
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxon, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Sarah Morris
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxon, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Eleanor Paine
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxon, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Holly Thornton
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxon, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Paul A. Thompson
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxon, OX2 6GG, UK
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Hutcheon JA, Nelson HD, Stidd R, Moskosky S, Ahrens KA. Short interpregnancy intervals and adverse maternal outcomes in high-resource settings: An updated systematic review. Paediatr Perinat Epidemiol 2019; 33:O48-O59. [PMID: 30311955 PMCID: PMC7380038 DOI: 10.1111/ppe.12518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Currently, no federal guidelines provide recommendations on healthy birth spacing for women in the United States. This systematic review summarises associations between short interpregnancy intervals and adverse maternal outcomes to inform the development of birth spacing recommendations for the United States. METHODS PubMed/Medline, POPLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and a previous systematic review were searched to identify relevant articles published from 1 January 2006 and 1 May 2017. Included studies reported maternal health outcomes following a short versus longer interpregnancy interval, were conducted in high-resource settings, and adjusted estimates for at least maternal age. Two investigators independently assessed study quality and applicability using established methods. RESULTS Seven cohort studies met inclusion criteria. There was limited but consistent evidence that short interpregnancy interval is associated with increased risk of precipitous labour and decreased risks of labour dystocia. There was some evidence that short interpregnancy interval is associated with increased risks of subsequent pre-pregnancy obesity and gestational diabetes, and decreased risk of preeclampsia. Among women with a previous caesarean delivery, short interpregnancy interval was associated with increased risk of uterine rupture in one study. No studies reported outcomes related to maternal depression, interpregnancy weight gain, maternal anaemia, or maternal mortality. CONCLUSIONS In studies from high-resource settings, short interpregnancy intervals are associated with both increased and decreased risks of adverse maternal outcomes. However, most outcomes were evaluated in single studies, and the strength of evidence supporting associations is low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A. Hutcheon
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyUniversity of British ColumbiaVancouverBritish ColumbiaCanada
| | - Heidi D. Nelson
- Department of Medical Informatics and Clinical EpidemiologyOregon Health & Science UniversityPortlandOregon
| | - Reva Stidd
- Atlas ResearchWashingtonDistrict of Columbia
| | - Susan Moskosky
- US Department of Health and Human ServicesOffice of Population Affairs, Office of the Assistant Secretary for HealthRockvilleMaryland
| | - Katherine A. Ahrens
- US Department of Health and Human ServicesOffice of Population Affairs, Office of the Assistant Secretary for HealthRockvilleMaryland
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Bishop DVM, Brookman-Byrne A, Gratton N, Gray E, Holt G, Morgan L, Morris S, Paine E, Thornton H, Thompson PA. Language phenotypes in children with sex chromosome trisomies. Wellcome Open Res 2018; 3:143. [PMID: 30815537 PMCID: PMC6376256 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.14904.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Sex chromosome trisomies (47,XXX, 47,XXY and 47,XYY) are known to be a risk factor for language disorder, but typical outcomes are hard to estimate, because many cases are identified only when problems are found. Methods: We recruited children aged 5-16 years with all three types of trisomy, and divided them into a High Bias group, identified in the course of investigations for neurodevelopmental problems, and a Low Bias group, identified via prenatal screening or other medical investigations. Children from a twin sample were used to compare the pattern and severity of language problems: they were subdivided according to parental concerns about language/history of speech-language therapy into a No Concerns group (N = 132) and a Language Concerns group (N = 41). Children were individually assessed on a psychometric battery, and a standardized parent checklist. After excluding children with intellectual disability, autism or hearing problems, psychometric data were available for 31 XXX, 20 XXY and 19 XYY Low Bias cases and 13 XXX, 25 XXY and 32 XYY High Bias cases. Results: Variation within each trisomy group was substantial: within the Low Bias group, overall language scores were depressed relative to normative data, but around one-third had no evidence of problems. There was no effect of trisomy type, and the test profile was similar to the Language Concerns comparison group. The rate of problems was much greater in the High Bias children with trisomies. Conclusions: When advising parents after discovery of a trisomy, it is important to emphasise that, though there is an increased risk of language problems, there is a very wide range of outcomes. Severe language problems are more common in those identified via genetic testing for neurodevelopmental problems but these are not typical of children identified on prenatal screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothy V. M. Bishop
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxon, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Annie Brookman-Byrne
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxon, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Nikki Gratton
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxon, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Elaine Gray
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxon, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Georgina Holt
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxon, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Louise Morgan
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxon, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Sarah Morris
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxon, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Eleanor Paine
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxon, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Holly Thornton
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxon, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Paul A. Thompson
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxon, OX2 6GG, UK
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Filoche S, Cram F, Lawton B, Beard A, Stone P. Implementing non-invasive prenatal testing into publicly funded antenatal screening services for Down syndrome and other conditions in Aotearoa New Zealand. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2017; 17:344. [PMID: 28978305 PMCID: PMC5628435 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-017-1535-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) is a relatively new screen for congenital conditions – specifically, common fetal aneuploidies including Down Syndrome. The test is based on isolating freely circulating fragments of fetal-placental DNA that is present in the mother’s blood. NIPT has a superior clinical performance compared to current screening, and has been available privately in Aotearoa New Zealand for the last 4 years. Main issue The proposed implementation of NIPT as a publicly funded service may widen the inequity in access to optional antenatal screening that already exists in this country. Conclusion This paper discusses precautions that can be taken at the health system, organisation, and personnel levels to ensure that access to NIPT is equitable, that services are culturally responsive, and women’s informed choice is promoted and protected. The adoption of NIPT into publicly funded services is an example of how genetic screening is becoming mainstreamed into health services; as such our approach may also have relevance around the introduction of other genetic and genomic screening initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Filoche
- Women's Health Research Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand.
| | | | - Bev Lawton
- Women's Health Research Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Angela Beard
- Christchurch Obstetric Associates, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Peter Stone
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Posthumus AG, Peters IA, Borsboom GJ, Knapen MFCM, Bonsel GJ. Inequalities in uptake of prenatal screening according to ethnicity and socio-economic status in the four largest cities of the Netherlands (2011-2013). Prenat Diagn 2017. [PMID: 28621806 DOI: 10.1002/pd.5089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In the Netherlands, all women are claimed to have equal access to prenatal screening (PS). Prior research demonstrated substantial inequalities in PS uptake associated with socioeconomic status (SES) and ethnic background. The suggested pathway was a lack of intention to participate in PS among these subgroups. We studied the background of inequalities in PS participation, challenging intention heterogeneity as the single explanation. METHODS Multivariable logistic regression analyses of the national PS registry, focusing on the four largest cities in the Netherlands (n = 4578, years 2011-2013), stratified by SES. OUTCOME MEASURES (1) any uptake of PS (yes/no) and (2) uptake (one/two tests) for women who intended to participate in two tests. Determinants included intention, ethnicity, practice, and age. RESULTS Of non-Western women, 85.7% were screened versus 89.7% of Western women. Intention was an important explanatory factor in all models. However, after correction for intention, ethnicity remained a significant determinant for differences in uptake. Ethnicity and SES also interacted, indicating that non-Western women in low SES areas had the lowest uptake (corrected for intention). CONCLUSIONS FOR PRACTICE Socioeconomic status and ethnicity related inequalities in PS uptake are only partially explained by intention heterogeneity; other pathways, in particular provider-related determinants, may play a role. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke G Posthumus
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ingrid A Peters
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Foundation Prenatal Screening Southwest Region of the Netherlands, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gerard J Borsboom
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten F C M Knapen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Foundation Prenatal Screening Southwest Region of the Netherlands, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gouke J Bonsel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Utrecht Medical Centre (UMCU), Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Petersson K, Lindkvist M, Persson M, Conner P, Åhman A, Mogren I. Prenatal diagnosis in Sweden 2011 to 2013-a register-based study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2016; 16:365. [PMID: 27876014 PMCID: PMC5120496 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-016-1165-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Accepted: 11/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal diagnosis involves methods used in early pregnancy as either screening tests or diagnostic methods. The aims of the study were to i) investigate guidelines on prenatal diagnosis in the counties of Sweden, ii) investigate uptake of prenatal diagnosis, and iii) background characteristics and pregnancy outcomes in relation to different prenatal diagnostic methods. METHODS A retrospective cross-sectional study using data from the Swedish Pregnancy Register 2011 to 2013 (284,789 pregnancies) was performed. Additionally, guidelines on prenatal diagnosis were collected. Biostatistical and epidemiological analyses were performed including calculation of odds ratios (OR) and their 95% confidence intervals in univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. RESULTS The national uptake of routine ultrasound examination, Combined Ultrasound and Biochemical test (CUB), Amniocentesis (AC) and Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) were 97.6, 33.0, 2.6 and 1.1%, respectively. From 2012, 6/21 counties offered CUB test to all pregnant women, nine counties at specific indications, and five counties did not offer CUB at all. Advanced maternal age demonstrated the highest impact on uptake of prenatal diagnosis. Further, university educational level in relation to lower educational level was associated with an increased likelihood of undergoing CUB (OR 2.30, 95% CI 2.26-2.35), AC (OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.46-1.63) and CVS (OR 2.68, 95% CI 2.44-2.93). CONCLUSION Offers of prenatal diagnosis varied considerably between counties resulting in unequal access to prenatal diagnosis for pregnant women. The intentions of the Swedish Health and Medical Services Act stating equal care for all, was thus not fulfilled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin Petersson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.
| | - Marie Lindkvist
- Department of Statistics, USBE; Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Epidemiology and Global Health, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | | | - Peter Conner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Fetal Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Annika Åhman
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Ingrid Mogren
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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Smith SK, Sousa MS, Essink-Bot ML, Halliday J, Peate M, Fransen M. Socioeconomic Differences in Informed Decisions About Down Syndrome Screening: A Systematic Review and Research Agenda. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2016; 21:868-907. [PMID: 27410478 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2016.1177145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Supporting pregnant women to make informed choices about Down syndrome screening is widely endorsed. We reviewed the literature on: (a) the association between socioeconomic position and informed choices and decision-making about Down syndrome screening, and (b) the possible mediating variables (e.g., health literacy, numeracy skills, behavioral and communication variables) that might explain the relationship. EMBASE, MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycINFO were searched from January 1999 to September 2014. The methodological quality of studies was determined by predefined criteria regarding the research aims, study design, study population and setting, measurement tools, and statistical analysis. A total of 33 studies met the inclusion criteria. Women from lower socioeconomic groups experience greater difficulties making informed choices about Down syndrome screening compared to women from higher socioeconomic groups. Most studies focus on individual dimensions of informed decision-making rather than assessing elements in conjunction with one another. Few studies have explored why there are socioeconomic differences in women's ability to make informed screening decisions. Future work is needed to identify mediating variables in this pathway. Systematic evidence-based intervention development to improve communication, understanding, and decision-making about Down syndrome screening is needed to ensure that women have an equal opportunity to make an informed choice about screening regardless of their socioeconomic position.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sian K Smith
- a Psychosocial Research Group, Prince of Wales Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine , University of New South Wales , Sydney , New South Wales , Australia
| | - Mariana S Sousa
- b Centre for Applied Nursing Research, Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, School of Nursing and Midwifery , University of Western Sydney , Penrith , New South Wales , Australia
- c Prince of Wales Clinical School , University of New South Wales , Sydney , New South Wales , Australia
| | - Marie-Louise Essink-Bot
- d Department of Public Health, Academic Medical Centre , University of Amsterdam , Amsterdam , The Netherlands
| | - Jane Halliday
- e Murdoch Children's Research Institute , Royal Children's Hospital , Melbourne , Victoria , Australia
- f Department of Paediatrics , University of Melbourne , Parkville , Victoria , Australia
| | - Michelle Peate
- g Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Women's Hospital , University of Melbourne , Parkville , Victoria , Australia
| | - Mirjam Fransen
- d Department of Public Health, Academic Medical Centre , University of Amsterdam , Amsterdam , The Netherlands
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Asthana S, Gibson A, Bailey T, Moon G, Hewson P, Dibben C. Equity of utilisation of cardiovascular care and mental health services in England: a cohort-based cross-sectional study using small-area estimation. HEALTH SERVICES AND DELIVERY RESEARCH 2016. [DOI: 10.3310/hsdr04140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundA strong policy emphasis on the need to reduce both health inequalities and unmet need in deprived areas has resulted in the substantial redistribution of English NHS funding towards deprived areas. This raises the question of whether or not socioeconomically disadvantaged people continue to be disadvantaged in their access to and utilisation of health care.ObjectivesTo generate estimates of the prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and common mental health disorders (CMHDs) at a variety of scales, and to make these available for public use via Public Health England (PHE). To compare these estimates with utilisation of NHS services in England to establish whether inequalities of use relative to need at various stages on the health-care pathway are associated with particular sociodemographic or other factors.DesignCross-sectional analysis of practice-, primary care trust- and Clinical Commissioning Group-level variations in diagnosis, prescribing and specialist management of CVD and CMHDs relative to the estimated prevalence of those conditions (calculated using small-area estimation).ResultsThe utilisation of CVD care appears more equitable than the utilisation of care for CMHDs. In contrast to the reviewed literature, we found little evidence of underutilisation of services by older populations. Indeed, younger populations appear to be less likely to access care for some CVD conditions. Nor did deprivation emerge as a consistent predictor of lower use relative to need for either CVD or CMHDs. Ethnicity is a consistent predictor of variations in use relative to need. Rates of primary management are lower than expected in areas with higher percentages of black populations for diabetes, stroke and CMHDs. Areas with higher Asian populations have higher-than-expected rates of diabetes presentation and prescribing and lower-than-expected rates of secondary care for diabetes. For both sets of conditions, there are pronounced geographical variations in use relative to need. For instance, the North East has relatively high levels of use of cardiac care services and rural (shire) areas have low levels of use relative to need. For CMHDs, there appears to be a pronounced ‘London effect’, with the number of people registered by general practitioners as having depression, or being prescribed antidepressants, being much lower in London than expected. A total of 24 CVD and 41 CMHD prevalence estimates have been provided to PHE and will be publicly available at a range of scales, from lower- and middle-layer super output areas through to Clinical Commissioning Groups and local authorities.ConclusionsWe found little evidence of socioeconomic inequality in use for CVD and CMHDs relative to underlying need, which suggests that the strong targeting of NHS resources to deprived areas may well have addressed longstanding concerns about unmet need. However, ethnicity has emerged as a significant predictor of inequality, and there are large and unexplained geographical variations in use relative to need for both conditions which undermine the principle of equal access to health care for equal needs. The persistence of ethnic variations and the role of systematic factors (such as rurality) in shaping patterns of utilisation deserve further investigation, as does the fact that the models were far better at explaining variation in use of CVD than mental health services.FundingThe National Institute for Health Research Health Services and Delivery Research programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheena Asthana
- School of Government, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Alex Gibson
- School of Government, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Trevor Bailey
- College of Mathematics and Physical Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Graham Moon
- School of Geography and the Environment, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Paul Hewson
- School of Computing and Mathematics, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Chris Dibben
- School of Geosciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Khoshnood B, Lelong N, Andrieu T, Houyel L, Bonnet D, Jouannic JM, Goffinet F. Assessing sociodemographic differences (or lack thereof) in prenatal diagnosis of congenital heart defects: a population-based study. BMJ Open 2016; 6:e009353. [PMID: 27009144 PMCID: PMC4809075 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2015-009353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Our main objective was to assess sociodemographic differences in the probability of prenatal diagnosis of congenital heart defects (CHD); we also looked at differences in termination of pregnancy for fetal anomaly (TOPFA). DESIGN Prospective cohort observational study. SETTING Population-based cohort of CHD (live births, TOPFA, fetal deaths) born to women residing in the Greater Paris area (Paris and its surrounding suburbs, N=317,538 total births). PARTICIPANTS 2867 cases of CHD, including 2348 (82%) live births, 466 (16%) TOPFA and 53 (2%) fetal deaths. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Differences in the probability of prenatal diagnosis by maternal occupation, geographic origin and place of residence; differences in the probability of TOPFA. RESULTS 29.1% (95% CI 27.5% to 30.8%) of all CHD were prenatally diagnosed. Probability of prenatal diagnosis was similar by maternal occupation, geographic origin and place of residence. In contrast, there were substantial differences in the probability of TOPFA by maternal geographic origin; differences by maternal occupation and place of residence were generally smaller and not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that an appropriate health system organisation aimed at providing universal, reimbursed specialised services to all women can provide comparable access to prenatal diagnosis for all sociodemographic groups. In contrast, we found substantial differences in TOPFA for women of different geographic origins, which may reflect women's preferences that should be respected, but that can nonetheless lead to the situation where families with fewer resources will be disproportionately responsible for care of newborns with more severe forms of CHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babak Khoshnood
- INSERM UMR 1153, Obstetrical, Perinatal and Pediatric Epidemiology Research Team (EPOPé), Center for Epidemiology and Statistics, Sorbonne Paris Cité (CRESS), DHU Risks in Pregnancy, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Lelong
- INSERM UMR 1153, Obstetrical, Perinatal and Pediatric Epidemiology Research Team (EPOPé), Center for Epidemiology and Statistics, Sorbonne Paris Cité (CRESS), DHU Risks in Pregnancy, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France
| | - Thibaut Andrieu
- INSERM UMR 1153, Obstetrical, Perinatal and Pediatric Epidemiology Research Team (EPOPé), Center for Epidemiology and Statistics, Sorbonne Paris Cité (CRESS), DHU Risks in Pregnancy, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France
| | - Lucile Houyel
- Service de chirurgie des cardiopathies congénitales, Hôpital Marie Lannelongue, Le Plessis Robinson, France
| | - Damien Bonnet
- Centre de référence M3C-Necker, Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Marie Jouannic
- Hôpital Trousseau, AP-HP, Centre pluridisciplinaire de diagnostic prénatal, UPMC, Paris, France
| | - François Goffinet
- INSERM UMR 1153, Obstetrical, Perinatal and Pediatric Epidemiology Research Team (EPOPé), Center for Epidemiology and Statistics, Sorbonne Paris Cité (CRESS), DHU Risks in Pregnancy, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France
- Maternité de Port-Royal, Groupe Hospitalier Cochin-Broca-Hôtel Dieu, Université Paris Descartes, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
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Field D, Boyle E, Draper E, Evans A, Johnson S, Khan K, Manktelow B, Marlow N, Petrou S, Pritchard C, Seaton S, Smith L. Towards reducing variations in infant mortality and morbidity: a population-based approach. PROGRAMME GRANTS FOR APPLIED RESEARCH 2016. [DOI: 10.3310/pgfar04010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BackgroundOur aims were (1) to improve understanding of regional variation in early-life mortality rates and the UK’s poor performance in international comparisons; and (2) to identify the extent to which late and moderately preterm (LMPT) birth contributes to early childhood mortality and morbidity.ObjectiveTo undertake a programme of linked population-based research studies to work towards reducing variations in infant mortality and morbidity rates.DesignTwo interlinked streams: (1) a detailed analysis of national and regional data sets and (2) establishment of cohorts of LMPT babies and term-born control babies.SettingCohorts were drawn from the geographically defined areas of Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire, and analyses were carried out at the University of Leicester.Data sourcesFor stream 1, national data were obtained from four sources: the Office for National Statistics, NHS Numbers for Babies, Centre for Maternal and Child Enquiries and East Midlands and South Yorkshire Congenital Anomalies Register. For stream 2, prospective data were collected for 1130 LMPT babies and 1255 term-born control babies.Main outcome measuresDetailed analysis of stillbirth and early childhood mortality rates with a particular focus on factors leading to biased or unfair comparison; review of clinical, health economic and developmental outcomes over the first 2 years of life for LMPT and term-born babies.ResultsThe deprivation gap in neonatal mortality has widened over time, despite government efforts to reduce it. Stillbirth rates are twice as high in the most deprived as in the least deprived decile. Approximately 70% of all infant deaths are the result of either preterm birth or a major congenital abnormality, and these are heavily influenced by mothers’ exposure to deprivation. Births at < 24 weeks’ gestation constitute only 1% of all births, but account for 20% of infant mortality. Classification of birth status for these babies varies widely across England. Risk of LMPT birth is greatest in the most deprived groups within society. Compared with term-born peers, LMPT babies are at an increased risk of neonatal morbidity, neonatal unit admission and poorer long-term health and developmental outcomes. Cognitive and socioemotional development problems confer the greatest long-term burden, with the risk being amplified by socioeconomic factors. During the first 24 months of life each child born LMPT generates approximately £3500 of additional health and societal costs.ConclusionsHealth professionals should be cautious in reviewing unadjusted early-life mortality rates, particularly when these relate to individual trusts. When more sophisticated analysis is not possible, babies of < 24 weeks’ gestation should be excluded. Neonatal services should review the care they offer to babies born LMPT to ensure that it is appropriate to their needs. The risk of adverse outcome is low in LMPT children. However, the risk appears higher for some types of antenatal problems and when the mother is from a deprived background.Future workFuture work could include studies to improve our understanding of how deprivation increases the risk of mortality and morbidity in early life and investigation of longer-term outcomes and interventions in at-risk LMPT infants to improve future attainment.FundingThe National Institute for Health Research Programme Grants for Applied Research programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Field
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Elaine Boyle
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Elizabeth Draper
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Alun Evans
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Samantha Johnson
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Kamran Khan
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Bradley Manktelow
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Neil Marlow
- Institute for Women’s Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Stavros Petrou
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | | | - Sarah Seaton
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Lucy Smith
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
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Li C, Shi L, Huang J, Qian X, Chen Y. Factors associated with utilization of maternal serum screening for Down syndrome in mainland China: a cross-sectional study. BMC Health Serv Res 2016; 16:8. [PMID: 26762138 PMCID: PMC4712508 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-016-1260-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Knowledge of the factors that influence maternal serum screening (MSS) service utilization can be used to develop health policies to promote equitable access to MSS and further diagnostic tests. The purpose of this study was to find the factors associated with utilization of MSS as well as the current status of service utilization in mainland China. METHODS This was a hospital-based cross-sectional study with respondents interviewed with a questionnaire designed based on Andersen's behavioral model. Descriptive statistics, univariate analysis, and multilevel logistic regression analysis were used to identify the factors associated with MSS utilization, and to explore potential methods to improve screening uptake. RESULTS A total of 8110 women who had given birth within the previous 7 days in one of 111 participating institutions from six provinces in mainland China were interviewed. Approximately 36% of the participants had used MSS. Women between 20 and 35 years, who resided in urban areas, were educated, were in a stable occupation, who had health knowledge, who attended maternal preparation classes, who had received eight or more prenatal checkups, who were from a region of higher social economic status, and who delivered in a tertiary healthcare institution were significantly more likely to use MSS than their counterparts. As compared with other factors, insufficient education is the single most important demographic factor for service underutilization. CONCLUSIONS Efforts should not only be made to target the population that underuses MSS, but the overall organization of MSS service delivery should be assessed during policy development to make access to MSS equitable to the entire population of mainland China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanlin Li
- School of Public Health, Key Lab of Health Technology Assessment (Ministry of Health), Fudan University, No.138 Yixueyuan Rd, Post box No. 197, Shanghai, 200032, PRC.
| | - Leiyu Shi
- Primary Care Policy Center, Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Jiayan Huang
- School of Public Health, Key Lab of Health Technology Assessment (Ministry of Health), Fudan University, No.138 Yixueyuan Rd, Post box No. 197, Shanghai, 200032, PRC.
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Social Risks Governance in Health, Shanghai, 200032, PRC.
| | - Xu Qian
- School of Public Health, Key Lab of Health Technology Assessment (Ministry of Health), Fudan University, No.138 Yixueyuan Rd, Post box No. 197, Shanghai, 200032, PRC.
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Social Risks Governance in Health, Shanghai, 200032, PRC.
| | - Yingyao Chen
- School of Public Health, Key Lab of Health Technology Assessment (Ministry of Health), Fudan University, No.138 Yixueyuan Rd, Post box No. 197, Shanghai, 200032, PRC.
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Social Risks Governance in Health, Shanghai, 200032, PRC.
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Rumbold AR, Wild KJ, Maypilama EL, Kildea SV, Barclay L, Wallace EM, Boyle JA. Challenges to Providing Fetal Anomaly Testing in a Cross-Cultural Environment: Experiences of Practitioners Caring for Aboriginal Women. Birth 2015; 42:362-8. [PMID: 26256095 DOI: 10.1111/birt.12182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Across Australia there are substantial disparities in uptake of antenatal testing for fetal anomalies, with very low uptake observed among Aboriginal women. The reasons behind these disparities are unclear, although poorer access to testing has been reported in some communities. We interviewed health care practitioners to explore the perceived barriers to providing fetal anomaly screening to Aboriginal women. METHODS In 2009 and 2010, in-depth interviews were undertaken with 59 practitioners in five urban and remote sites across the Northern Territory (NT) of Australia. Data were analyzed thematically. Maximum variation sampling, independent review of findings by multiple analysts, and participant feedback were undertaken to strengthen the validity of findings. RESULTS Participants included midwives (47%), Aboriginal health practitioners (AHP) (32%), general practitioners (12%), and obstetricians (9%); almost all (95%) were female. Participants consistently reported difficulties counseling women. Explaining the concept of "risk" (of abnormalities and the screening test result) was identified as particularly challenging, because of a perceived lack of an equivalent concept in Aboriginal languages. While AHPs could assist with overcoming language barriers, they are underutilized. Participants also identified impediments to organizing testing including difficulties establishing gestational age, late presentation for care, and a lack of standardized information and training. DISCUSSION The availability of fetal anomaly testing is challenged by communication difficulties, including a focus on culturally specific biomedical concepts, and organizational barriers to arranging testing. Developing educational activities that address the technical aspects of screening and communication skills will assist in improving access. These activities must include AHPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice R Rumbold
- The Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Kayli J Wild
- Institute of Human Security and Social Change, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | | | - Sue V Kildea
- Mater Health Service, Mater Research Institute & School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Lesley Barclay
- University Centre for Rural Health, a collaboration between The University of Sydney, University of Western Sydney, University of Wollongong, Southern Cross University with NNSW Local Health District, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Euan M Wallace
- The Ritchie Centre and the Carl Wood Chair of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Jacqueline A Boyle
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
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Smith M, Praetorius RT. The Challenges and Opportunities Associated with Sickle Cell Disease Prevention, Education, and Management. SOCIAL WORK IN PUBLIC HEALTH 2015; 30:592-612. [PMID: 26458116 DOI: 10.1080/19371918.2015.1087905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a hereditary blood disorder affecting the shape of the red blood cells that block blood vessels leading to organ damage and frequent erratic painful episodes. SCD is a global public health issue affecting millions of people throughout the world. This article explores (a) what SCD is; (b) the physical and psychosocial impacts of the disease;
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcella Smith
- a The University of Texas at Arlington , Arlington , Texas , USA
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21
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Budd JLS, Draper ES, Lotto RR, Berry LE, Smith LK. Socioeconomic inequalities in pregnancy outcome associated with Down syndrome: a population-based study. Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 2015; 100:F400-4. [PMID: 26071456 PMCID: PMC4552926 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2014-306985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2014] [Accepted: 04/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate socioeconomic inequalities in outcome of pregnancy associated with Down syndrome (DS) compared with other congenital anomalies screened for during pregnancy. DESIGN AND SETTING Retrospective population-based registry study (East Midlands & South Yorkshire in England). PARTICIPANTS All registered cases of DS and nine selected congenital anomalies with poor prognostic outcome (the UK Fetal Anomaly Screening Programme (FASP)9) with an end of pregnancy date between 1 January 1998 and 31 December 2007. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Poisson regression models were used to explore outcome measures, including socioeconomic variation in rates of anomaly; antenatal detection; pregnancy outcome; live birth incidence and neonatal mortality. Deprivation was measured using the Index of Multiple Deprivation 2004 at super output area level. RESULTS There were 1151 cases of DS and 1572 cases of the nine severe anomalies combined. The overall rate of antenatal detection was 57% for DS, which decreased with increasing deprivation (rate ratio comparing the most deprived tenth with the least deprived: 0.76 (0.60 to 0.97)). Antenatal detection rates were considerably higher for FASP9 anomalies (86%), with no evidence of a trend with deprivation (0.99 95% CI (0.84 to 1.17)). The termination of pregnancy rate following antenatal diagnosis was higher for DS (86%) than the FASP9 anomalies (70%). Both groups showed wide socioeconomic variation in the termination of pregnancy rate (rate ratio: DS: 0.76 (0.58 to 0.99); FASP9 anomalies: 0.80 (0.65 to 0.97)). Consequently, socioeconomic inequalities in live birth and neonatal mortality rates associated with these anomalies arise that were not observed in utero. CONCLUSIONS Socioeconomic inequalities exist in the antenatal detection of DS, and subsequent termination rates are much higher for DS than other anomalies. Termination rates for all anomalies are lower in more deprived areas leading to wide socioeconomic inequalities in live born infants with a congenital anomaly, particularly DS, and subsequent neonatal mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith L S Budd
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | | | - Robyn R Lotto
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Laura E Berry
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Lucy K Smith
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
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Hayeems RZ, Campitelli M, Ma X, Huang T, Walker M, Guttmann A. Rates of prenatal screening across health care regions in Ontario, Canada: a retrospective cohort study. CMAJ Open 2015; 3:E236-43. [PMID: 26389102 PMCID: PMC4565176 DOI: 10.9778/cmajo.20140110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is recommended that all pregnant women be offered screening for Down syndrome and open neural tube defects, but emerging prenatal tests that are not publicly insured may compromise access. We evaluated screening rates for publicly insured screening tests across health care regions in the province of Ontario and determined whether maternal, provider or regional characteristics are associated with screening uptake. METHODS We conducted a population-based retrospective cohort study involving pregnant women in Ontario who were at or beyond 16 weeks' gestation in 2007-2009. We ascertained prenatal screening rates using linked health administrative and prenatal screening datasets. We examined maternal, provider and regional characteristics associated with screening uptake. Rate ratios (RRs) were estimated. RESULTS Of the 264 737 women included in the study, 62.2% received prenatal screening; uptake varied considerably by region (range 27.8%-80.3%). A greater proportion of women initiated screening in the first rather than the second trimester (50.0% v. 12.2%). Factors associated with lower screening rates included living in a rural area versus an urban area (adjusted rate ratio 0.64, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.63-0.66), receiving first-trimester care from a family physician or midwife versus an obstetrician (adjusted rate ratio 0.91, 95% CI 0.90-0.92, and 0.40, 95% CI 0.38-0.43, respectively) and being in a lower income quintile (adjusted RR for lowest v. highest 0.95, 95% CI 0.94-0.96). Being an immigrant or a refugee was associated with higher screening rates. INTERPRETATION There were significant maternal, provider and regional differences in the uptake of prenatal screening across the province. With discrepancies expected to increase with the emergence of noninvasive prenatal tests paid for out of pocket by many women, policy efforts to reduce barriers to prenatal screening and optimize its availability are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Z Hayeems
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Toronto, Ont. ; Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont
| | | | - Xiaomu Ma
- Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, Ont
| | - Tianhua Huang
- Genetics Program, North York General Hospital, Toronto, Ont. ; Better Outcomes Registry and Network (BORN) Ontario, Ottawa, Ont
| | - Mark Walker
- Better Outcomes Registry and Network (BORN) Ontario, Ottawa, Ont. ; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ont. ; Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ont
| | - Astrid Guttmann
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont. ; Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, Ont. ; Hospital for Sick Children and Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont
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Agarwal A, Sayres LC, Cho MK, Cook-Deegan R, Chandrasekharan S. Commercial landscape of noninvasive prenatal testing in the United States. Prenat Diagn 2014; 33:521-31. [PMID: 23686656 DOI: 10.1002/pd.4101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Cell-free fetal DNA-based noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) could significantly change the paradigm of prenatal testing and screening. Intellectual property (IP) and commercialization promise to be important components of the emerging debate about clinical implementation of these technologies. We have assembled information about types of testing, prices, turnaround times, and reimbursement of recently launched commercial tests in the United States from the trade press, news articles, and scientific, legal, and business publications. We also describe the patenting and licensing landscape of technologies underlying these tests and ongoing patent litigation in the United States. Finally, we discuss how IP issues may affect clinical translation of NIPT and their potential implications for stakeholders. Fetal medicine professionals (clinicians and researchers), genetic counselors, insurers, regulators, test developers, and patients may be able to use this information to make informed decisions about clinical implementation of current and emerging noninvasive prenatal tests.
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Verweij EJJ, Oepkes D, de Vries M, van den Akker MEE, van den Akker ES, de Boer MA. Non-invasive prenatal screening for trisomy 21: what women want and are willing to pay. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2013; 93:641-645. [PMID: 24011429 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2013.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2013] [Revised: 07/04/2013] [Accepted: 08/12/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the attitude among pregnant women regarding non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) for detecting trisomy 21 (T21) and to quantify their willingness to pay for NIPT. METHODS A questionnaire was administered to pregnant women who received counselling for first-trimester screening (FTS) in two hospitals and nine midwife practices in the Netherlands. RESULTS A total of 147 women completed the questionnaire, yielding a response rate of 43%. If NIPT for detecting T21 were available, 81% stated they would choose to have this test, and 57% of women who elected not to undergo FTS in their current pregnancy would perform NIPT if available. Willingness to pay for NIPT was correlated with age and income, but not education level. The price that participants were willing to pay for NIPT was similar to the current price for FTS. CONCLUSION The pregnant women in our study had a positive attitude regarding NIPT for T21, and more than half of the women who rejected prenatal screening would receive NIPT if available. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Due to the elimination of iatrogenic miscarriage, caregivers should be aware that informed decision-making can change with respect to prenatal screening with the introduction of NIPT.
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Affiliation(s)
- E J Joanne Verweij
- Department of Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Centre, The Netherlands.
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Assessing the impact of the SOGC recommendations to increase access to prenatal screening on overall use of health resources in pregnancy. JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY CANADA 2013; 35:444-453. [PMID: 23756275 DOI: 10.1016/s1701-2163(15)30935-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The recommendation by the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada that prenatal screening for fetal aneuploidy be offered to all pregnant women is an important change in clinical obstetrics. However, it is unknown how this recommendation might affect the use of other health resources during pregnancy. METHODS Twelve clinical and administrative databases were linked, and care paths outlining typical service use in pregnancy were created based on the type of prenatal screening accessed (first trimester screening [FTS], maternal serum screening [MSS], invasive testing only, or no screening and/or diagnosis). Logistic, Poisson, and negative binomial models were applied to the data to examine the association between use of prenatal screening/diagnosis and other health services during pregnancy. RESULTS Women who accessed prenatal screening/diagnosis were significantly more likely to have a consultation with a medical geneticist (FTS OR 2.42; 95% CI 1.75 to 3.33; MSS OR 4.84; 95% CI 2.92 to 8.03; and invasive testing OR 8.58; 95% CI 5.28 to 13.94), and women who accessed FTS had more prenatal visits (FTS incidence rate ratio 1.03; 95% CI 1.01 to 1.05) than women who did not access prenatal screening/diagnosis. Uptake of invasive tests did not differ between women who accessed FTS and those who accessed MSS. Use of prenatal screening/diagnosis was not significantly associated with use of most other health resources CONCLUSION In a publicly funded health care system, understanding the impact of recommendations to increase access to a specific service on other services is important. Recommendations to increase access to prenatal screening services may have some unanticipated downstream effects on the use of other services during pregnancy. However, most aspects of health resource use in pregnancy do not appear to be influenced by the use of prenatal screening services.
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Wild K, Maypilama EL, Kildea S, Boyle J, Barclay L, Rumbold A. 'Give us the full story': overcoming the challenges to achieving informed choice about fetal anomaly screening in Australian Aboriginal communities. Soc Sci Med 2012; 98:351-60. [PMID: 23337828 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2012.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2012] [Revised: 10/19/2012] [Accepted: 10/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This cross-cultural qualitative study examined the ethical, language and cultural complexities around offering fetal anomaly screening in Australian Aboriginal communities. There were five study sites across the Northern Territory (NT), including urban and remote Aboriginal communities. In-depth interviews were conducted between October 2009 and August 2010, and included 35 interviews with 59 health providers and 33 interviews with 62 Aboriginal women. The findings show that while many providers espoused the importance of achieving equity in access to fetal anomaly screening, their actions were inconsistent with this ideal. Providers reported they often modified their practice depending on the characteristics of their client, including their English skills, the perception of the woman's interest in the tests and assumptions based on their risk profile and cultural background. Health providers were unsure whether it was better to tailor information to the specific needs of their client or to provide the same level of information to all clients. Very few Aboriginal women were aware of fetal anomaly screening. The research revealed they did want to be offered screening and wanted the 'full story' about all aspects of the tests. The communication processes advocated by Aboriginal women to improve understanding about screening included community discussions led by elders and educators. These processes promote culturally defined ways of sharing information, rather than the individualised, biomedical approaches to information-giving in the clinical setting. A different and arguably more ethical approach to introducing fetal anomaly screening would be to initiate dialogue with appropriate groups of women in the community, particularly young women, build relationships and utilise Aboriginal health workers. This could accommodate individual choice and broader cultural values and allow women to discuss the moral and philosophical debates surrounding fetal anomaly screening prior to the clinical encounter and within their own cultural space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayli Wild
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Australia.
| | - Elaine Lawurrpa Maypilama
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Australia; Yalu Marnggithinyaraw Centre, Elcho Island, Australia
| | - Sue Kildea
- Australian Catholic University, Australia; Mater Mothers' Hospital, Australia
| | - Jacqueline Boyle
- Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Australia
| | - Lesley Barclay
- University Centre for Rural Health, University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Alice Rumbold
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Australia; Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Adelaide, Australia
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Pergament E, Pergament D. Reproductive decisions after fetal genetic counselling. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2012; 26:517-29. [PMID: 22809468 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2012.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2012] [Accepted: 04/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
A broad range of testing modalities for fetal genetic disease has been established. These include carrier screening for single-gene mutations, first-trimester and second-trimester screening for chromosome abnormalities and open neural-tube defects, prenatal diagnosis by means of chorionic villus sampling and amniocentesis, and preimplantation genetic diagnosis. Reproductive decisions before and after fetal genetic counselling represent the culmination of a dynamic interaction between prospective parents, obstetrician and genetic counsellor. The decision to undergo genetic testing before and after genetic counselling is influenced by a host of interrelated factors, including patient-partner and family relationships, patient-physician communication, societal mores, religious beliefs, and the media. Because of the complexity of personal and societal factors involved, it is not surprising that genetic counselling concerning reproductive decision-making must be individualised. A limited number of principles, guidelines and standards apply when counselling about testing for fetal genetic disease. These principles are that genetic counselling should be non-directive and unbiased and that parental decisions should be supported regardless of the reproductive choice. A critical responsibility of the obstetrician and genetic counsellor is to provide accurate and objective information about the implications, advantages, disadvantages and consequences of any genetic testing applied to prospective parents and their fetuses. These principles and responsibilities will be tested as newer technologies, such as array comparative genome hybridisation, non-invasive prenatal diagnosis and sequencing of the entire genome are introduced into the field of reproductive genetics and become routine practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugene Pergament
- Northwestern Reproductive Genetics, Inc., Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
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Yu J. A systematic review of issues around antenatal screening and prenatal diagnostic testing for genetic disorders: women of Asian origin in western countries. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2012; 20:329-346. [PMID: 22067008 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2524.2011.01036.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Antenatal screening has become standard practice in many countries. However, not all pregnant women choose to be tested. In the UK, the incidence of some birth defects is found to be higher in babies of Asian women than in those of women from other ethnic groups, while there is some evidence suggesting that ethnic minorities, especially Asian women, are less likely to undergo antenatal screening and prenatal diagnosis, the reasons for which are unclear. This study aims to identify and describe the literature on issues around antenatal screening and prenatal diagnostic testing for genetic disorders among women of Asian descent in western countries. The Medline, CINAHL, ASSIA and PsycInfo databases were searched for the period of 1995 and 2010. Twenty-one studies met the inclusion criteria and were therefore reviewed. In general, Asian women were found to hold favourable attitudes towards testing. However, they reported a poorer understanding of testing than white women and not being offered a test, and were less able to make informed choices. Asian women in the UK and Australia were found to be less likely than their white counterparts to have undergone prenatal diagnosis, while such differences were not found in the USA and Canada. The equity of access to quality antenatal care, alongside comprehensive well thought out antenatal screening programmes, can be assured if strategies are in place which actively involve all ethnic groups and take account of social and cultural appropriateness for the population served. An understanding of broad factors that inform women's decision-making on test uptake would help health professionals provide women and their families with more culturally sensitive information and support that they may additionally need to make more informed choices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juping Yu
- University of Glamorgan, Pontypridd, Mid Glamorgan, UK.
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Beeckman K, Louckx F, Putman K. Content and timing of antenatal care: predisposing, enabling and pregnancy-related determinants of antenatal care trajectories. Eur J Public Health 2012; 23:67-73. [PMID: 22628457 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/cks020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND When examining risk factors for inadequate antenatal care, the assessment of antenatal care hardly considers the content and timing of interventions during pregnancy. This study aims to provide information about the importance of predisposing, enabling and pregnancy-related determinants on the received content and timing of antenatal care. METHODS In the Brussels Metropolitan Region, 333 women were consecutively recruited at the beginning of their pregnancies. Antenatal care use was recorded prospectively. A classification system measuring the content and timing of care during pregnancy (CTP) divided the women into four categories. Ordinal regression analyses were applied to define unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios (ORs), measuring the effect of different determinants on being assigned to a higher CTP category. RESULTS A total of 10.2% of the women had an inadequate, 8.4% an intermediate, 36% a sufficient and 45.3% an appropriate antenatal care trajectory. Adjusted ORs showed a lower likelihood of being assigned to a higher CTP category for lower educated women (OR: 0.58; 95% CI 0.37-0.92), women of Maghreb origin (OR: 0.38; 95% CI 0.22-0.66) and women with a higher discontinuity of care (OR: 0.56; 95% CI 0.34-0.90). CONCLUSIONS When controlling for confounders, no enabling determinants were found that affect the content and timing of care in pregnancy. Although antenatal care is equally available to all women, predisposing and pregnancy-related factors were related to the likelihood of completing an appropriate antenatal care trajectory. Besides stimulating knowledge about the importance of antenatal care in less-educated and Maghreb women, supporting continuity of care during pregnancy might result in higher levels of received antenatal care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrien Beeckman
- Department of Medical Sociology and Health Sciences, Vrije University Brussels, Brussels, Belgium.
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Kuppermann M, Nakagawa S, Cohen SR, Dominguez-Pareto I, Shaffer BL, Holloway SD. Attitudes toward prenatal testing and pregnancy termination among a diverse population of parents of children with intellectual disabilities. Prenat Diagn 2011; 31:1251-8. [PMID: 22028300 DOI: 10.1002/pd.2880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2011] [Revised: 08/03/2011] [Accepted: 08/23/2011] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine how parents of children with intellectual disabilities view prenatal testing and pregnancy termination for their child's condition. METHOD We interviewed 201 English-speaking or Spanish-speaking caregivers of children aged 2 to 10 years. Primary outcomes were being disinclined to undergo prenatal testing or pregnancy termination for the child's condition in a future pregnancy. RESULTS While only 33% of the sample indicated they would not have prenatal testing, 75% were disinclined to terminate their pregnancy if their fetus was affected. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, Asians were significantly less likely than White participants to say they would forego prenatal testing (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 0.08, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.01-0.86, p = 0.037), while Latinos had lower odds of being disinclined to terminate (aOR = 0.27, 95% CI = 0.07-0.99, p = 0.048). Participants who felt that abortion for their child's condition should not be available were more likely to say they would forego prenatal testing (aOR = 5.10, 95% CI = 2.09-12.43, p < 0.001) and, not surprisingly, they were also at higher odds of being disinclined to terminate pregnancy for this condition (aOR = 13.63, 95% = CI 4.19-44.34, p < 0.001). Greater life satisfaction also was associated with being disinclined to terminate pregnancy (aOR = 3.40, 95% CI = 1.34-8.61, p = 0.010). CONCLUSION Although many parents of children with intellectual disabilities believe they would desire information regarding their fetus in a future pregnancy, most feel they would not opt to terminate their pregnancy. As new tests for intellectual disabilities become available, determining what would be most useful to prospective parents should become a high priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Kuppermann
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143-0856, USA.
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Smith LK, Budd JLS, Field DJ, Draper ES. Socioeconomic inequalities in outcome of pregnancy and neonatal mortality associated with congenital anomalies: population based study. BMJ 2011; 343:d4306. [PMID: 21771825 PMCID: PMC3139368 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.d4306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/16/2011] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate socioeconomic inequalities in outcome of pregnancy and neonatal mortality associated with congenital anomalies. DESIGN Retrospective population based registry study. SETTING East Midlands and South Yorkshire regions of England (representing about 10% of births in England and Wales). PARTICIPANTS All registered cases of nine selected congenital anomalies with poor prognostic outcome audited as part of the United Kingdom's fetal anomaly screening programme with an end of pregnancy date between 1 January 1998 and 31 December 2007. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Socioeconomic variation in the risk of selected congenital anomalies; outcome of pregnancy; incidence of live birth and neonatal mortality over time. Deprivation measured with the index of multiple deprivation 2004 at super output area level. RESULTS There were 1579 fetuses registered with one of the nine selected congenital anomalies. There was no evidence of variation in the overall risk of these anomalies with deprivation (rate ratio for the most deprived 10th with the least deprived 10th: 1.05, 95% confidence interval 0.89 to 1.23). The rate ratio varied with type of anomaly and maternal age (deprivation rate ratio adjusted for maternal age: 1.43 (1.17 to 1.74) for non-chromosomal anomalies; 0.85 (0.63 to 1.15) for chromosomal anomalies). Of the nine anomalies, 86% were detected in the antenatal period, and there was no evidence that this varied with deprivation (rate ratio 0.99, 0.84 to 1.17). The rate of termination after antenatal diagnosis of a congenital anomaly was lower in the most deprived areas compared with the least deprived areas (63% v 79%; rate ratio 0.80, 0.65 to 0.97). Consequently there were significant socioeconomic inequalities in the rate of live birth and neonatal mortality associated with the presence of any of these nine anomalies. Compared with the least deprived areas, the most deprived areas had a 61% higher rate of live births (1.61, 1.21 to 2.15) and a 98% higher neonatal mortality rate (1.98, 1.20 to 3.27) associated with a congenital anomaly. CONCLUSIONS Antenatal screening for congenital anomalies has reduced neonatal mortality through termination of pregnancy. Socioeconomic variation in decisions regarding termination of pregnancy after antenatal detection, however, has resulted in wide socioeconomic inequalities in liveborn infants with a congenital anomaly and subsequent neonatal mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy K Smith
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester, UK.
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Shaw A. Risk and reproductive decisions: British Pakistani couples' responses to genetic counselling. Soc Sci Med 2011; 73:111-20. [PMID: 21641705 PMCID: PMC3149658 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2011.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2010] [Revised: 04/08/2011] [Accepted: 04/11/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
How far does ethnicity/culture/religion mediate couples' responses to genetic risk? This paper examines the responses of 51 British Pakistani couples referred to a genetics clinic in southern England to counselling about recurrence risks for genetic problems in children. It is based on fieldwork conducted between 2000 and 2004 that combined participant observation of genetics consultations with interviews in respondents' homes. Interviews were conducted with 62 adults in connection with these 51 cases, of which 32 were followed through two or more clinical consultations and 12 through more than one pregnancy. Risk responses were categorized as: taking the risk; postponing; exploring risk management or dismissing the risk as irrelevant to current circumstances. Responses were cross-referenced for associations with the severity of the condition, number of affected and unaffected children, availability of a prenatal test, age, gender, and migration history. I found that most couples were initially risk-takers who already had an unaffected child or children. Couples caring for living children with severe conditions were more likely to postpone. However, the risk responses of 15 couples changed over time, most towards and some away from risk management, reflecting changes in couples' appreciation of the severity of the condition and their subsequent reproductive experiences. The study highlights the diversity and dynamism of responses within one ethnic group and challenges stereotypes about cultural and religious responses to genetic risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Shaw
- Department of Public Health, University of Oxford, Oxford OX2 6HE, United Kingdom.
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Hawk AF, Pastore L, Saller DN. Genetic screening in a university clinic: impact of primary language. Prenat Diagn 2011; 31:846-52. [PMID: 21706503 DOI: 10.1002/pd.2785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2010] [Revised: 03/21/2011] [Accepted: 04/25/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To contrast Spanish-speaking (S) with English-speaking (E) obstetric patients regarding utilization of genetic screening, motivation for undergoing/declining screening, pregnancy-related anxiety, knowledge about genetic conditions, and printed information as an adjunct to counseling. METHOD Paper surveys were given to patients (n = 121) in an academic OB/GYN clinic or placed in charts (n = 271) over a 4-week period. Comparisons were evaluated with Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests. RESULTS Completed surveys were returned from 245 gravidas (response rate 63%, S 48%, and E 67%). Uptake of genetic screening was similar between the groups (S 69% vs. E 57%, p = 0.13). No significant differences were noted in patients' motivation regarding screening, source of screening information, or self-assessed pregnancy-related anxiety. Familiarity of genetic disorders other than Down syndrome differed between the S and E groups (p < 0.003). Perceived positive utility of printed information differed significantly when groups were analyzed by language (S 85% vs. E 47%, p < 0.001) and by uptake of screening(screened 62% vs. not screened 44%, p = 0.006). CONCLUSION A majority of study participants (n = 147, 60%) chose genetic screening; uptake and motivation were similar across language groups. Familiarity with genetic conditions was deficient and screening terminology confusing regardless of primary language. The perceived positive utility of printed information (S > E) highlights the importance of clear and early counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela F Hawk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908-0760, USA.
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Fransen MP, Schoonen MHMHJD, Mackenbach JP, Steegers EAP, de Koning HJ, Laudy JAM, Galjaard RJ, Looman CWN, Essink-Bot ML, Wildschut HIJ. Ethnic differences in participation in prenatal screening for Down syndrome: a register-based study. Prenat Diagn 2011; 30:988-94. [PMID: 20799374 DOI: 10.1002/pd.2603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess ethnic differences in participation in prenatal screening for Down syndrome in the Netherlands. METHODS Participation in prenatal screening was assessed for the period 1 January 2009 to 1 July 2009 in a defined postal code area in the southwest of the Netherlands. Data on ethnic origin, socio-economic background and age of participants in prenatal screening were obtained from the Medical Diagnostic Centre and the Department of Clinical Genetics. Population data were obtained from Statistics Netherlands. Logistic regression models were used to assess ethnic differences in participation, adjusted for socio-economic and age differences. RESULTS The overall participation in prenatal screening was 3865 out of 15 093 (26%). Participation was 28% among Dutch women, 15% among those from Turkish ethnic origin, 8% among those from North-African origin, 15% among those from Aruban/Antillean origin and 26% among women from Surinamese origin. CONCLUSIONS Compared to Dutch women, those from Turkish, North-African, Aruban/Antillean and other non-Western ethnic origin were less likely to participate in screening. It was unexpected that women from Surinamese origin equally participated. It should be further investigated to what extent participation and non-participation in these various ethnic groups was based on informed decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirjam P Fransen
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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MAXWELL S, BRAMELD K, BOWER C, DICKINSON JE, GOLDBLATT J, HADLOW N, HEWITT B, MURCH A, MURPHY A, STOCK R, O’LEARY P. Socio-demographic disparities in the uptake of prenatal screening and diagnosis in Western Australia. Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol 2010; 51:9-16. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1479-828x.2010.01250.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Fransen MP, Wildschut HI, Mackenbach JP, Steegers EA, Galjaard RJ, Essink-Bot ML. Ethnic and socio-economic differences in uptake of prenatal diagnostic tests for Down's syndrome. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2010; 151:158-62. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2010.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2009] [Revised: 03/19/2010] [Accepted: 04/25/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Fransen MP, Wildschut HIJ, Vogel I, Mackenbach JP, Steegers EAP, Essink-Bot ML. Ethnic differences in considerations whether or not to participate in prenatal screening for Down syndrome. Prenat Diagn 2010; 29:1262-9. [PMID: 19842117 DOI: 10.1002/pd.2391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate ethnic differences in considerations whether or not to participate in prenatal screening for Down syndrome and to relate these to differences in participation. METHOD The study population consisted of 270 pregnant women from Dutch, Turkish and Surinamese (African and South Asian) ethnic origin, attending midwifery or obstetrical practices in the Netherlands. Women were interviewed after booking for prenatal care. Considerations were assessed by one open-ended question and 18 statements that were derived from focus group interviews. Actual participation was assessed several months later. RESULTS Women from ethnic minorities were less likely to participate in prenatal screening, which could be attributed to differences in age and religious identity. They more often reported acceptance of 'what God gives', low risk of having a child with Down syndrome and costs of screening as considerations not to participate in prenatal screening. They also reported many considerations in favour of participation, which did not differ from those of Dutch women but were less often consistent with actual participation in screening. CONCLUSIONS Women from ethnic minorities should not be stereotyped as being uninterested in prenatal screening, but should be better informed about the consequences of prenatal screening and Down syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirjam P Fransen
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Duwe KN, Reefhuis J, Honein MA, Schieve LA, Rasmussen SA. Epidemiology of Fertility Treatment Use Among U.S. Women with Liveborn Infants, 1997–2004. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2010; 19:407-16. [DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2009.1499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kara N. Duwe
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Oak Ridge, Tennessee
| | - Jennita Reefhuis
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Margaret A. Honein
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Laura A. Schieve
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Sonja A. Rasmussen
- National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
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Fransen MP, Vogel I, Mackenbach J, Steegers E, Essink-Bot ML. Information about prenatal screening for Down syndrome: ethnic differences in knowledge. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2009; 77:279-288. [PMID: 19409748 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2009.03.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2008] [Revised: 03/16/2009] [Accepted: 03/29/2009] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the provision of information about prenatal screening for Down syndrome to women of Dutch, Turkish and Surinamese origins, and to examine the effects of this provision on ethnic differences in knowledge about Down syndrome and prenatal screening. METHODS The study population consisted of 105 Dutch, 100 Turkish and 65 Surinamese pregnant women attending midwifery or obstetrical practices in The Netherlands. Each woman was personally interviewed for 3 weeks (mean) after booking for prenatal care. RESULTS Most women reported to have received oral and/or written information about prenatal screening by their midwife or obstetrician at booking for prenatal care. Turkish and Surinamese women less often read the information than Dutch women, more often reported difficulties in understanding the information, and had less knowledge about Down syndrome, prenatal screening and amniocentesis. Language skills and educational level contributed most to the explanation of these ethnic variations. CONCLUSION Although most Dutch, Turkish and Surinamese women reported to have received information from their midwife or obstetrician, ethnic differences in knowledge about Down syndrome and prenatal screening are substantial. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Interventions to improve the provision of information to women from ethnic minority groups should especially be aimed at overcoming language barriers, and targeting information to the women's abilities to comprehend the information about prenatal screening for Down syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirjam P Fransen
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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A review of the methodological features of systematic reviews in fetal medicine. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2009; 146:121-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2009.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2008] [Revised: 03/30/2009] [Accepted: 05/02/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Rowe R, Puddicombe D, Hockley C, Redshaw M. Offer and uptake of prenatal screening for Down syndrome in women from different social and ethnic backgrounds. Prenat Diagn 2008; 28:1245-50. [DOI: 10.1002/pd.2125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Khoshnood B, De Vigan C, Blondel B, Vodovar V, Cadio E, Goffinet F. Long-term trends for socio-economic differences in prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome: diffusion of services or persistence of disparities? BJOG 2008; 115:1087-95. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.2008.01794.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Use of folic acid supplements, particularly by low-income and young women: a series of systematic reviews to inform public health policy in the UK. Public Health Nutr 2008; 11:807-21. [PMID: 18457601 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980008002346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide a basis for making recommendations on the potential to improve use of folic acid supplements in the UK, particularly among low-income and young women. DESIGN Systematic reviews of relevant research from 1989 to May 2006 in Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. RESULTS Twenty-six systematic reviews and/or meta-analyses were identified from the wider public health literature, and eighteen studies on the effectiveness of preconception interventions were included. Ninety studies were identified which were directly relevant to folic acid supplement intake. There were factors that are particularly associated with lower rates of use of folic acid supplements. One of the most important of these is the link with unintended pregnancy, followed by age, socio-economic and ethnic group. Integrated campaigns can increase the use of folic acid supplements to some extent. Research trials indicated that: (i) printed resources and the mass media used in isolation are not effective in the longer term; and (ii) health-care-based initiatives can be effective and are more likely to be successful if they include making supplements easily available. CONCLUSIONS Campaigns and interventions have the potential to exacerbate socio-economic inequalities in folic acid use. One way of addressing this is to include elements that specifically target vulnerable women. To achieve and maintain an effect, they need to be based on good health promotion practice and to be sustained over a long period. However, even high-quality campaigns that increase use result in under half of women in the target group taking supplements.
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Grupposo MC, Khoshnood B, Supernant K, Blondel B. Disparités socioéconomiques dans le dépistage prénatal de la trisomie 21 par marqueurs sériques : évolution entre 1998 et 2003 en France. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 37:246-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jgyn.2007.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2007] [Revised: 12/17/2007] [Accepted: 12/17/2007] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Alderdice F, McNeill J, Rowe R, Martin D, Dornan J. Inequalities in the reported offer and uptake of antenatal screening. Public Health 2008; 122:42-52. [PMID: 17645901 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2007.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2006] [Revised: 04/06/2007] [Accepted: 05/14/2007] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to identify whether there is a different pattern of reported offer and uptake of antenatal screening tests across social groups. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING Two large maternity hospitals in Northern Ireland. SAMPLE Women booking for antenatal care were recruited consecutively over a 3-month period commencing 1 September 2003. In total, 711 women were recruited at booking: 359 at Hospital 1 and 352 at Hospital 2. Six hundred and sixty-six women completed both interviews. METHODS Two semi-structured interviews were arranged with consenting participants. The first interview was conducted at the booking appointment, and the second interview took place after 23 weeks of gestation after all screening, including anomaly ultrasound, would have been offered. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Reported offer and uptake of all screening tests were explored in relation to key sociodemographic indicators: level of education; mother's occupation; partner's occupation; single parent status; car ownership; religious denomination; and Townsend Deprivation Index. RESULTS With the exception of screening for Down's syndrome and neural tube defects, virtually all of the women were offered and underwent screening tests. Further analysis of data from Hospital 1 showed that, after controlling for other sociodemographic factors, women with a lower level of education had a lower odds of reporting Down's syndrome screening being offered Down's syndrome screening. Women having private antenatal care had a higher odds of accepting the offer of a test for Down's syndrome. CONCLUSIONS While the majority of antenatal screening tests are offered to all pregnant women in Northern Ireland, screening for Down's syndrome and NTD reflects a different pattern of offer and uptake. This paper provides evidence of variations in offer and uptake that exist even when it is hospital policy to offer screening to all women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Alderdice
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK.
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Petrou S, Kupek E, Gray R. Income inequalities and self-reported maternal health status: cross-sectional national survey. BJOG 2007; 114:1018-22. [PMID: 17578468 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.2007.01413.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to examine income inequalities in the self-reported health status of women during the postnatal period. We analysed data from a cohort of 18,523 birth mothers of children who participated in the Millennium Cohort Study. Data on income and self-reported health status were collected during face-to-face interviews conducted at 9 months postpartum. Total take-home household income from employment, government and other sources was estimated and equivalised to reflect household composition, while self-reported health status was converted into a dichotomous measure. Complex survey logistic regression models were used to explore the association between equivalised household income and fair or poor self-reported health status. Compared with mothers with equivalised household income in the first quintile (bottom 20%) of the income distribution, mothers in the third (OR 0.69; 95% CI 0.59-0.81), fourth (OR 0.43; 95% CI 0.38-0.50) and fifth (OR 0.32; 95% CI 0.27-0.37) quintiles had a decreased likelihood of reporting fair or poor health status (P < 0.001). However, following adjustment for other predictors of postnatal health status, only mothers with equivalised household income in the fifth quintile (top 20%) had a decreased likelihood of reporting fair or poor health status (OR 0.72; 95% CI 0.58-0.90; P = 0.004). We conclude that this study provides support for the existence of an income gradient for postnatal health status. Efforts to reduce income inequalities in adverse maternal health outcomes are likely to require macro and microeconomic initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Petrou
- National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Cross-Sudworth
- Community Midwifery Office, Birmingham Heartlands Hospital, Bordesley Green, Birmingham
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Dormandy E, Tsui EYL, Marteau TM. Development of a measure of informed choice suitable for use in low literacy populations. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2007; 66:278-95. [PMID: 17300913 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2007.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2006] [Revised: 01/02/2007] [Accepted: 01/03/2007] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the reliability and validity of a simplified questionnaire-based measure of informed choice in populations with low literacy. The measure comprises (a) knowledge about the test and (b) attitudes towards undergoing the test. Responses to (a) and (b) together with information on test uptake, are used to classify choices as informed or uninformed. METHODS A cross-sectional study of 79 pregnant women (46 women with higher, and 33 with lower education levels) completed a simplified questionnaire, a standardised questionnaire and a semi-structured interview about antenatal sickle cell and thalassaemia (SCT) screening. The measures used were: (a) informed choice, based on knowledge about the test, attitudes towards undergoing the test, and uptake of the test and (b) ease of completion measures. RESULTS The simplified measures of knowledge and attitudes were able to distinguish between women classified according to interview responses as having good or poor knowledge (knowledge scores 6.8 versus 3.2, p<0.001), and positive or negative attitudes towards undergoing the test (attitude scores 20.6 versus 16.2, p=0.023). There was no difference in rates of informed choice derived from the simplified or standardised measures (54% versus 51%, 95% CI difference -11 to 19). Women with lower levels of education found the simplified questionnaire easier to complete than the standardised version (11.0 versus 9.6, p=0.009). Those with higher levels of education found no difference in ease of completion between the two versions of the questionnaire (11.8 versus 11.6, p=0.54). CONCLUSION A simplified questionnaire-based measure of informed choice in antenatal SCT screening is as reliable and valid as a more complex standardised version and for those with less education, easier to complete. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS The simplified questionnaire-based measure of informed choice is suitable for use in populations with low and high levels of education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Dormandy
- Department of Psychology (at Guy's), Health Psychology Section, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, London, UK.
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Ray JG, Vermeulen MJ, Schull MJ, Singh G, Shah R, Redelmeier DA. Results of the Recent Immigrant Pregnancy and Perinatal Long-term Evaluation Study (RIPPLES). CMAJ 2007; 176:1419-26. [PMID: 17485694 PMCID: PMC1863534 DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.061680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who immigrate to Western nations may experience fewer chronic health problems than original residents of those countries, which raises concerns about long-term environmental or lifestyle factors in those countries. We tested whether the "healthy immigrant effect" extends to the risk of placental dysfunction during the short interval of pregnancy. METHODS We conducted a population-based retrospective cohort study of data for 796 105 women who had a first documented obstetric delivery in Ontario between 1995 and 2005. Recency of immigration was determined for each woman as the time from her enrolment in universal health insurance to her date of delivery, classified as less than 3 months, 3-5 months, 6-11 months, 12-23 months, 24-35 months, 36-47 months, 48-59 months and 5 years or more (the referent). The primary composite outcome was maternal placental syndrome (defined as a diagnosis of pre-eclampsia or eclampsia, placental abruption or placental infarction). RESULTS The mean age of the women was 28.8 years. Maternal placental syndrome occurred in 45 216 women (5.7%). The risk of this outcome was lowest among the women who had immigrated less than 3 months before delivery (3.8%) and highest among those living in Ontario at least 5 years (6.0%), for a crude odds ratio (OR) of 0.62 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.54-0.71). After adjustment for maternal age, income status, pre-existing hypertension, diabetes mellitus, multiple gestation and receipt of prenatal ultrasonography, the risk of maternal placental syndrome was correlated with the number of months since immigration in a gradient manner (OR, 95% CI): less than 3 months (0.53, 0.47-0.61), 3-5 months (0.68, 0.61-0.76), 6-11 months (0.67, 0.63-0.71), 12-23 months (0.69, 0.66-0.73), 24-35 months (0.75, 0.70-0.79), 36-47 months (0.75, 0.70-0.80) and 48-59 months (0.82, 0.77-0.87). INTERPRETATION There was a progressively lower risk of maternal placental syndromes associated with recency of immigration. The "healthy immigrant effect" may extend to common placental disorders, diminishes with the duration of residency and underscores the importance of nongenetic determinants of maternal health accrued over a brief period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel G Ray
- Department of Medicine, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont.
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Weisz B, Pandya P, Chitty L, Jones P, Huttly W, Rodeck C. Practical issues drawn from the implementation of the integrated test for Down syndrome screening into routine clinical practice. BJOG 2007; 114:493-7. [PMID: 17309546 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.2007.01238.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
We have evaluated a cohort of women booked for antenatal care at University College London Hospitals. The uptake of screening was 64.4% and was significantly higher (73 versus 46%) in women who booked before 14 weeks. Of the women who booked before 14 weeks, 96.8% opted for the integrated test (IT). Overall, 5.3% failed to attend for the second blood test. The false-positive rate in the women who had the IT was 2.9%. All 11 cases of Down syndrome were detected prenatally. Our study is the first to evaluate implementation of the IT into routine clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Weisz
- Department of Fetal Medicine, Elizabeth Garret Anderson and Obstetric Hospital, University College Hospital, London, UK
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