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Pasquier L, Reyneke M, Beeckman L, Siermann M, Van Steijvoort E, Borry P. Attitudes of professional stakeholders towards implementation of reproductive genetic carrier screening: a systematic review. Eur J Hum Genet 2023; 31:395-408. [PMID: 36631542 PMCID: PMC10133284 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-022-01274-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Reproductive genetic carrier screening (RGCS) for hundreds of different genetic conditions is technically available for prospective parents, but these tests have not been integrated in a public health policy except for specific sub-groups. We aimed to provide an overview of the perspectives of multiple professional stakeholder groups in order to enhance a responsible implementation of population-based reproductive genetic carrier screening. We conducted a systematic literature search using eight online databases focussing on studies that were published from January 2009 to January 2021. We selected articles dealing with attitudes and opinions from different professional stakeholders, in particular healthcare professionals and policymakers, on how to implement a policy about carrier screening for a reproductive purpose. We identified 18 studies that met our inclusion criteria. Based on our inductive analysis, we identified ten themes categorized in both clinical and program management challenges: ensuring availability of RGCS to all couples who request the test, embedding RGCS as a test offer before pregnancy, providing clear and reliable information, ensuring voluntary participation, developing genetic counselling pre- and post-testing (after positive or negative result), avoiding psychological harm, ensuring equal access, avoiding social pressure, educating and involving a broad spectrum of non-genetic health care professionals, and promoting an independent non-commercial organisational structure. We highlight one major stumbling block on how to responsibly inform couples about hundreds different genetic conditions within constraints regarding time and ability of non-genetic professionals. We promote further research to tackle the issues brought up by this systematic review through pilot studies. Trial Registration: PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews PROSPERO 2021 # CRD42021233762; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=233762 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurent Pasquier
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
- Clinical genetics, Reference Center for Rares Diseases "Intellectual Disabilities", Rennes University Hospital, 35203, Rennes, France.
| | - Maryn Reyneke
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
- Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Department of Health, Ethics and Society GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Lauranne Beeckman
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Maria Siermann
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Eva Van Steijvoort
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Pascal Borry
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
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Li Y, Wang L, Tan J, Huang M, Wang Y, Shao B, Lv J, Zhang J. Current attitudes toward carrier screening for spinal muscular atrophy among pregnant women in Eastern China. J Genet Couns 2023. [PMID: 36775845 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1691] [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: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an autosomal recessive and often fatal neurological disease. However, very little is known about the attitudes toward SMA carrier screening among Chinese pregnant people. In this study, pregnant women in Eastern China who were undergoing routine chromosomal screening programs were invited to view an educational video about SMA and complete a 26-item survey regarding their attitudes toward SMA screening by scanning a specific quick response code. A total of 1673 questionnaires were collected, and 81.1% of respondents were willing to undergo self-funded screening. If the screening program were included in the medical insurance, 97.8% of respondents were willing to accept screening. The important reasons for supporting SMA screening were a belief that it could help them make better reproductive decisions and avoid having a child with SMA. The key reason for declining SMA screening was not having a family history of genetic diseases. A higher score for SMA genetics knowledge was associated with a greater willingness to undergo SMA screening. We concluded that pregnant women in Eastern China had positive attitudes toward SMA carrier screening. Improving genetic knowledge and including the screening program in medical insurance would support the widespread implementation of SMA carrier screening. Steps should be taken to offer SMA carrier screening along with pre- and posttest education and genetic counseling to raise awareness and reduce misconceptions regarding SMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yerong Li
- Department of Prenatal diagnosis, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Lulu Wang
- Department of Prenatal diagnosis, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianxin Tan
- Department of Prenatal diagnosis, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Mingtao Huang
- Department of Prenatal diagnosis, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuguo Wang
- Department of Prenatal diagnosis, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Binbin Shao
- Department of Prenatal diagnosis, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Juan Lv
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Department of Prenatal diagnosis, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
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Rouh AlDeen N, Osman AA, Alhabashi MJ, Al Khaldi R, Alawadi H, Alromh MK, Alyafai EG, Akbulut-Jeradi N. The Prevalence of β-Thalassemia and Other Hemoglobinopathies in Kuwaiti Premarital Screening Program: An 11-Year Experience. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11100980. [PMID: 34683121 PMCID: PMC8538810 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11100980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aims to estimate the prevalence rates of β-thalassemia and Sickle cell disorders in the adult population screened (n = 275,819) as part of the Kuwaiti National Premarital Screening Program. All the individuals who applied for a marriage license during the years 2009 and 2020 were covered by the program. A network of four reception centers in the Ministry of Health facilities and one Premarital Diagnostic Laboratory (PDL) in Maternity Hospital were involved in performing all investigations for hemoglobinopathies. The total number of individuals identified with β-thal trait was 5861 (2.12%), while 22 individuals (0.008%) were diagnosed with β-thal disease. A total of 5003 subjects (1.81%) were carrying the Sickle cell trait, while 172 subjects (0.062%) had Sickle cell disease including Sickle cell anemia (SCA). Results showed that the program succeeded indeed in preventing the marriage of 50.4% of risky couples by issuing unsafe marriage certificates. Yet more efforts are needed to improve the program’s main objective of decreasing high-risk marriages. In particular, health care systems should be ameliorated in a way to intensify the counselling mechanism for the high-risk couples, strengthen the awareness of the general population and induce earlier age screening policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najat Rouh AlDeen
- Hematology Department, Maternity Hospital, P.O. Box 4078, Sabah 13001, Kuwait; (N.R.A.); (A.A.O.); (M.J.A.)
| | - Asmaa A Osman
- Hematology Department, Maternity Hospital, P.O. Box 4078, Sabah 13001, Kuwait; (N.R.A.); (A.A.O.); (M.J.A.)
| | - Monira J Alhabashi
- Hematology Department, Maternity Hospital, P.O. Box 4078, Sabah 13001, Kuwait; (N.R.A.); (A.A.O.); (M.J.A.)
| | - Rasha Al Khaldi
- ATC Learn Center, Advanced Technology Company, P.O. Box 44558, Hawalli 32060, Kuwait;
| | - Hassan Alawadi
- Social Health Administration, Kuwait Premarital Center, P.O. Box 4078, Sabah 13001, Kuwait; (H.A.); (M.K.A.); (E.G.A.)
| | - Maha K Alromh
- Social Health Administration, Kuwait Premarital Center, P.O. Box 4078, Sabah 13001, Kuwait; (H.A.); (M.K.A.); (E.G.A.)
| | - Eiman G Alyafai
- Social Health Administration, Kuwait Premarital Center, P.O. Box 4078, Sabah 13001, Kuwait; (H.A.); (M.K.A.); (E.G.A.)
| | - Nagihan Akbulut-Jeradi
- ATC Learn Center, Advanced Technology Company, P.O. Box 44558, Hawalli 32060, Kuwait;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +965-22247251
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Rural, Low-Income, Pregnant Latina Women's Perspectives on Carrier Screening. Obstet Gynecol 2021; 138:106-107. [PMID: 34259471 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000004412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Bonneau V, Nizon M, Latypova X, Gaultier A, Hoarau E, Bézieau S, Minguet G, Turrini M, Jourdain M, Isidor B. First French study relative to preconception genetic testing: 1500 general population participants' opinion. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2021; 16:130. [PMID: 33712027 PMCID: PMC7955630 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-021-01754-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Until very recently, preconception genetic testing was only conducted in particular communities, ethnic groups or families for which an increased risk of genetic disease was identified. To detect in general population a risk for a couple to have a child affected by a rare, recessive or X-linked, genetic disease, carrier screening is proposed in several countries. We aimed to determine the current public opinion relative to this approach in France, using either a printed or web-based questionnaire. Results Among the 1568 participants, 91% are favorable to preconception genetic tests and 57% declare to be willing to have the screening if the latter is available. A medical prescription by a family doctor or a gynecologist would be the best way to propose the test for 73%, with a reimbursement from the social security insurance. However, 19% declare not to be willing to use the test because of their ethic or moral convictions, and the fear that the outcome would question the pregnancy. Otherwise, most participants consider that the test is a medical progress despite the risk of an increased medicalization of the pregnancy. Conclusion This first study in France highlights a global favorable opinion for the preconception genetic carrier testing under a medical prescription and a reimbursement by social security insurance. Our results emphasize as well the complex concerns underpinned by the use of this screening strategy. Therefore, the ethical issues related to these tests include the risk of eugenic drift mentioned by more than half of the participants. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13023-021-01754-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valérie Bonneau
- Département de Médecine Générale, Université de Nantes, 44000, Nantes, France.,USR 3491 Maison Des Sciences de L'Homme Ange Guepin, 44000, Nantes, France
| | - Mathilde Nizon
- Service de Génétique Médicale, CHU Nantes, 9 quai Moncousu, 44093, Nantes Cedex 1, France
| | - Xenia Latypova
- Service de Génétique Médicale, CHU Nantes, 9 quai Moncousu, 44093, Nantes Cedex 1, France
| | - Aurélie Gaultier
- Plateforme de Méthodologie Et de Biostatistique, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Eugénie Hoarau
- Département de Médecine Générale, Université de Nantes, 44000, Nantes, France.,USR 3491 Maison Des Sciences de L'Homme Ange Guepin, 44000, Nantes, France
| | - Stéphane Bézieau
- Service de Génétique Médicale, CHU Nantes, 9 quai Moncousu, 44093, Nantes Cedex 1, France
| | | | - Mauro Turrini
- Université de Nantes, Droit et Changement Social UMR 6297, Maison Des Sciences de L'Homme Ange Guépin, Nantes, France
| | - Maud Jourdain
- Département de Médecine Générale, Université de Nantes, 44000, Nantes, France.,USR 3491 Maison Des Sciences de L'Homme Ange Guepin, 44000, Nantes, France
| | - Bertrand Isidor
- Service de Génétique Médicale, CHU Nantes, 9 quai Moncousu, 44093, Nantes Cedex 1, France.
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Best S, Long J, Theodorou T, Hatem S, Lake R, Archibald A, Freeman L, Braithwaite J. Health practitioners' perceptions of the barriers and enablers to the implementation of reproductive genetic carrier screening: A systematic review. Prenat Diagn 2021; 41:708-719. [PMID: 33533079 PMCID: PMC8252081 DOI: 10.1002/pd.5914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background As interest in reproductive genetic carrier screening rises, with increased availability, the role of healthcare practitioners is central in guiding uptake aligned with a couples' values and beliefs. Therefore, practitioners' views on implementation are critical to the success of any reproductive genetic carrier screening programme. Aim To explore healthcare practitioners' perceptions of the barriers and enablers to implementation. Materials & Methods We undertook a systematic review of the literature searching seven databases using health practitioner, screening and implementation terms returning 490 articles. Results Screening led to the inclusion of 26 articles for full‐text review. We found three interconnected themes relating to reproductive genetic carrier screening: (i) use and impact, (ii) practitioners' beliefs and expectations and (iii) resources. Discussion Barriers and enablers to implementation were present within each theme and grouping these determinants by (a) community for example lack of public interest, (b) practitioner for example lack of practitioner time and (c) organisation for example lack of effective metrics, reveals a preponderance of practitioner barriers and organisational enablers. Linking barriers with potential enablers leaves several barriers unresolved (e.g., costs for couples) implying additional interventions may be required. Conclusion Future research should draw on the findings from this study to develop and test strategies to facilitate appropriate offering of reproductive genetic carrier screening by healthcare practitioners. What is already known?Availability of reproductive genetic carrier screening is rising. Screening is often focused on ethnically specific conditions or for those with a family history of disease. Commonly, carriers do not have family history of disease.
What does this review add?Identifies practitioner barriers to implementation of reproductive genetic carrier screening, for example, beliefs and expectations. Matches identified practitioner barriers to enablers to implementation. Highlights where additional implementation support is required, for example, lack of practitioner confidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Best
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Australian Genomics Health Alliance, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Janet Long
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tahlia Theodorou
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sarah Hatem
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rebecca Lake
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Alison Archibald
- Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Bruce Lefroy Centre, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lucinda Freeman
- Centre for Clinical Genetics, Sydney Children's Hospital Randwick, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jeffrey Braithwaite
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Valente GM, Amor DJ, Ioannou LJ, Archibald AD. Factors influencing medical practitioner participation in population carrier screening for cystic fibrosis. Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol 2020; 61:232-238. [PMID: 33135161 DOI: 10.1111/ajo.13264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cystic fibrosis (CF) carrier screening should be offered to people planning a pregnancy or in early pregnancy, according to current recommendations. However, research indicates rates of offering CF carrier screening are low. Health professionals (HPs) play an important role in offering population carrier screening. AIMS To determine the opinions, knowledge and practice patterns of HPs with regard to the routine offering of population carrier screening for CF. MATERIALS AND METHODS Five key informant interviews informed the development of an online questionnaire which was distributed to a select group of HPs involved in prenatal care in Victoria, Australia. RESULTS Of the participants who completed the questionnaire (n = 87), 35.6% reported offering CF carrier screening to all patients attending for preconception or early pregnancy consultations. High referrers of CF carrier screening were more likely to be female, work in the private sector, in metropolitan areas and specialise as an obstetrician. High referrers demonstrated a greater level of knowledge of CF and carrier screening than low referrers (t = -3.779, P < 0.001). Low referrers perceived more barriers to offering carrier screening than high referrers (t = 2.125, P = 0.037). Low referrers were more likely to perceive lack of community awareness and HP knowledge as a barrier to offering CF carrier screening, compared to high referrers, who were more likely to perceive time constraints as a barrier. CONCLUSIONS To promote routine offering of population CF carrier screening, resources are needed to improve knowledge and provide clinical support thereby reducing perceived barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia M Valente
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Clinical Genetics Service, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - David J Amor
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Liane J Ioannou
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Public Health & Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alison D Archibald
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Ong R, Howting D, Rea A, Christian H, Charman P, Molster C, Ravenscroft G, Laing NG. Measuring the impact of genetic knowledge on intentions and attitudes of the community towards expanded preconception carrier screening. J Med Genet 2018; 55:744-752. [PMID: 30068663 DOI: 10.1136/jmedgenet-2018-105362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preconception carrier screening (PCS) provides the potential to empower couples to make reproductive choices before having an affected child. An important question is what factors influence the decision to use or not use PCS. METHODS We analysed the relationship between knowledge, attitudes and intentions to participate in PCS using logistic regression in 832 participants in Western Australia. RESULTS Two-thirds of participants said they would take the test, with 92% of these supporting screening for diseases reducing the lifespan of children and infants. Those who had good genetic knowledge were seven times more likely to intend to use PCS (p≤0.001), while those with high genetic knowledge were four times more likely to (p=0.002) and raised concerns such as insurance and confidentiality.Decreasing genetic knowledge correlated positively with religiosity and apprehension (p≤0.001), which correlated negatively with intention to use PCS (p≤0.001). Increasing genetic knowledge correlated positively with factors representing positive attitudes (p≤0.001), which correlated positively with intention to use PCS (p≤0.001). Many participants with good genetic knowledge nevertheless answered questions that tested understanding incorrectly.80% of participants stated they would prefer to access the test through their general practitioners and 30% would pay up to $A200. CONCLUSIONS Knowledge is instrumental in influencing participation. Having good genetic knowledge may not be enough to understand core concepts of PCS and may impact informed decision-making. This study recommends that continuous education of health professionals and thus the community, in PCS is crucial to reduce misconceptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Royston Ong
- Centre for Medical Research, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,QEII Medical Centre, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Denise Howting
- Centre for Medical Research, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,QEII Medical Centre, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Alethea Rea
- Centre for Applied Statistics, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Hayley Christian
- School of Population and Global Health, and Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Pauline Charman
- BioDiscovery Centre, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Caron Molster
- Department of Health Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Gianina Ravenscroft
- Centre for Medical Research, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,QEII Medical Centre, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Nigel George Laing
- Centre for Medical Research, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,QEII Medical Centre, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
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Miron-Shatz T, Rapaport SR, Srebnik N, Hanoch Y, Rabinowitz J, Doniger GM, Levi L, Rolison JJ, Tsafrir A. Invasive Prenatal Diagnostic Testing Recommendations are Influenced by Maternal Age, Statistical Misconception and Perceived Liability. J Genet Couns 2017; 27:59-68. [DOI: 10.1007/s10897-017-0120-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2016] [Accepted: 05/30/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Janssens S, Chokoshvili D, Vears D, De Paepe A, Borry P. Attitudes of European Geneticists Regarding Expanded Carrier Screening. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2016; 46:63-71. [PMID: 27875676 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogn.2016.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/01/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore attitudes of clinical and molecular geneticists about the implementation of multi-disease or expanded carrier screening (ECS) for monogenic recessive disorders. DESIGN Qualitative; semistructured interviews. SETTING In person or via Skype. Interviews were audiorecorded and transcribed verbatim. PARTICIPANTS European clinical and molecular geneticists with expertise in carrier screening (N = 16). METHODS Inductive content analysis was used to identify common content categories in the data. RESULTS Participants recognized important benefits of ECS, but they also identified major challenges, including limited benefit of ECS for most couples in the general population, lack of knowledge on carrier screening among nongenetic health care providers and the general public, potential negative implications of ECS for society, and limited economic resources. Participants favored an evidence-based approach to the implementation of population-wide ECS and were reluctant to actively offer ECS in the absence of demonstrable benefits. However, there was a consensus among the participants that ECS should be made available to couples who request the test. In addition, they believed ECS could be routinely offered to all people who use assisted reproduction. CONCLUSION Although a limited ECS offer is practical, it also raises concerns over equality in access to screening. A comprehensive risk-benefit analysis is needed to determine the desirability of systematic population-wide ECS.
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Henneman L, Borry P, Chokoshvili D, Cornel MC, van El CG, Forzano F, Hall A, Howard HC, Janssens S, Kayserili H, Lakeman P, Lucassen A, Metcalfe SA, Vidmar L, de Wert G, Dondorp WJ, Peterlin B. Responsible implementation of expanded carrier screening. Eur J Hum Genet 2016; 24:e1-e12. [PMID: 26980105 PMCID: PMC4867464 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2015.271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2015] [Revised: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 11/18/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This document of the European Society of Human Genetics contains recommendations regarding responsible implementation of expanded carrier screening. Carrier screening is defined here as the detection of carrier status of recessive diseases in couples or persons who do not have an a priori increased risk of being a carrier based on their or their partners' personal or family history. Expanded carrier screening offers carrier screening for multiple autosomal and X-linked recessive disorders, facilitated by new genetic testing technologies, and allows testing of individuals regardless of ancestry or geographic origin. Carrier screening aims to identify couples who have an increased risk of having an affected child in order to facilitate informed reproductive decision making. In previous decades, carrier screening was typically performed for one or few relatively common recessive disorders associated with significant morbidity, reduced life-expectancy and often because of a considerable higher carrier frequency in a specific population for certain diseases. New genetic testing technologies enable the expansion of screening to multiple conditions, genes or sequence variants. Expanded carrier screening panels that have been introduced to date have been advertised and offered to health care professionals and the public on a commercial basis. This document discusses the challenges that expanded carrier screening might pose in the context of the lessons learnt from decades of population-based carrier screening and in the context of existing screening criteria. It aims to contribute to the public and professional discussion and to arrive at better clinical and laboratory practice guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidewij Henneman
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section Community Genetics and EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pascal Borry
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Davit Chokoshvili
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Centre for Medical Genetics Ghent, University Hospital Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Martina C Cornel
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section Community Genetics and EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carla G van El
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section Community Genetics and EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Heidi C Howard
- Centre for Research Ethics and Bioethics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sandra Janssens
- Centre for Medical Genetics Ghent, University Hospital Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hülya Kayserili
- Department of Medical Genetics, Koç University School of Medicine (KUSoM), Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Phillis Lakeman
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anneke Lucassen
- Department of Clinical Ethics and Law (CELS), University of Southampton and Wessex Clinical Genetic Service, Southampton, UK
| | - Sylvia A Metcalfe
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute and Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Lovro Vidmar
- Clinical Institute of Medical Genetics, Ljubljana University Medical Centre, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Guido de Wert
- Department of Health, Ethics & Society, Research Schools CAPHRI and GROW, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Wybo J Dondorp
- Department of Health, Ethics & Society, Research Schools CAPHRI and GROW, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Borut Peterlin
- Clinical Institute of Medical Genetics, Ljubljana University Medical Centre, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Beard CA, Amor DJ, Di Pietro L, Archibald AD. "I'm Healthy, It's Not Going To Be Me": Exploring experiences of carriers identified through a population reproductive genetic carrier screening panel in Australia. Am J Med Genet A 2016; 170:2052-9. [PMID: 27150953 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.37697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2015] [Accepted: 04/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Advancing genetic testing technologies mean that population-based carrier screening for multiple inherited conditions is now available. As the number of genetic conditions being screened increases, there is a need for research into how people experience these screening programs. This research aimed to explore how women experience simultaneous carrier screening for three inherited conditions: cystic fibrosis (CF), spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), and fragile X syndrome (FXS). A qualitative approach was adopted using in-depth semi-structured interviews to explore the experiences of ten female participants: five SMA carriers, three CF carriers, and two FXS premutation carriers. Eight participants were pregnant when offered screening by their general practitioner or obstetrician and the decision to have screening was described as straightforward. Participants reported experiencing emotional responses such as anxiety and stress while waiting for either their partner's carrier screen result (CF or SMA carriers) or the pregnancy's CVS result (FXS carrier) and sought additional information about the relevant condition during this time. Most participants were in favor of population carrier screening for these conditions, preferably prior to conception. Genetic counselors played an essential role in supporting couples after they received a carrier result given the variable consent processes undertaken when screening was offered. Further research should focus on the development of reliable online information tailored to people receiving carrier results and strategies for raising awareness of the availability of population carrier screening within the community. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine A Beard
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - David J Amor
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Louisa Di Pietro
- Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Genetic Support Network of Victoria, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alison D Archibald
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Moultrie RR, Kish-Doto J, Peay H, Lewis MA. A Review on Spinal Muscular Atrophy: Awareness, Knowledge, and Attitudes. J Genet Couns 2016; 25:892-900. [DOI: 10.1007/s10897-016-9955-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Attitudes of cystic fibrosis patients and parents toward carrier screening and related reproductive issues. Eur J Hum Genet 2015. [PMID: 26220700 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2015.160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life-limiting autosomal recessive disorder affecting ~1 in 2500-4000 Caucasians. As most CF patients have no family history of the disorder, carrier screening for CF has the potential to prospectively identify couples at risk of conceiving an affected child. At-risk couples may consequently choose to act on the provided information and take steps to avoid the birth of a child with CF. Although carrier screening is widely believed to enhance reproductive autonomy of prospective parents, the practice also raises important ethical questions. A written questionnaire was administered to adult patients and parents of children with CF with the aim to explore participants' attitudes toward CF carrier screening and related reproductive issues. The study population was recruited from a CF patient registry in Belgium and comprised 111 participants (64 parents, 47 patients aged 16 or older). We found that more than 80% of all participants were in favor of preconception carrier screening for CF. However, some were concerned over potential negative consequences of population-wide CF carrier screening. Regarding future reproductive intentions, 43% of the participants indicated a desire to have children. Among these, preimplantation genetic diagnosis was found to be the most preferred reproductive option, closely followed by spontaneous pregnancy and prenatal diagnosis. Although the findings of our study suggest that patients and parents of children with CF support a population-based carrier screening program for CF, they also highlight some issues deserving particular attention when implementing such a program.
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Lew RM, Burnett L, Proos AL, Barlow-Stewart K, Delatycki MB, Bankier A, Aizenberg H, Field MJ, Berman Y, Fleischer R, Fietz M. Ashkenazi Jewish population screening for Tay-Sachs disease: the international and Australian experience. J Paediatr Child Health 2015; 51:271-9. [PMID: 24923490 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.12632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Internationally, Tay-Sachs disease (TSD) preconception screening of Ashkenazi Jewish (AJ) individuals and couples has led to effective primary prevention of TSD. In Australia, adolescent preconception genetic screening programs operate mainly in Jewish community high schools. These existing programs offer an effective means of primary prevention of TSD, are cost effective and safe. However, in the broader Australian community TSD screening is not systematically performed and cases still occur in unscreened AJ individuals. In order to improve the effectiveness of Australian screening, there is a need for definitive guidelines for healthcare professionals to facilitate extension of the proven benefits of preconception TSD screening to all AJ individuals at risk. We performed a systematic review of the relevant literature relating to AJ pre-conception and antenatal screening for TSD. The evidence was assessed using an established National Health and Medical Research Council evidence grading system. Evaluations of efficacy of TSD screening programs design and execution, cost-benefit and cost-utility health economic evaluation, and population outcomes were undertaken. The results have been used to propose a model for universal AJ TSD preconception and antenatal screening for the primary care setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raelia M Lew
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, QEII Research Institute for Mothers and Infants, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Lew RM, Burnett L, Proos AL, Delatycki MB. Tay-Sachs disease: current perspectives from Australia. APPLICATION OF CLINICAL GENETICS 2015; 8:19-25. [PMID: 25653550 PMCID: PMC4309774 DOI: 10.2147/tacg.s49628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Tay-Sachs disease (TSD) is a fatal, recessively inherited neurodegenerative condition of infancy and early childhood. Although rare in most other populations, the carrier frequency is one in 25 in Ashkenazi Jews. Australian high-school-based TSD preconception genetic screening programs aim to screen, educate, and optimize reproductive choice for participants. These programs have demonstrated high uptake, low psychological morbidity, and have been shown to result in fewer than expected Jewish TSD-affected births over 18 years of operation. The majority of Jewish individuals of reproductive age outside of the high school screening program setting in Australia have not accessed screening. Recent recommendations advocate supplementing the community high school screening programs with general practitioner- and obstetrician-led genetic screening of Ashkenazi Jewish individuals for TSD and other severe recessive diseases for which this group is at risk. Massively parallel DNA sequencing is expected to become the testing modality of choice over the coming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raelia M Lew
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, QEII Research Institute for Mothers and Infants, The University of Sydney, Australia ; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Dentistry and Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Leslie Burnett
- NSW Health Pathology North, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, Australia ; SEALS, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, Australia ; Sydney Medical School-Northern, Royal North Shore Hospital E25, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Anné L Proos
- NSW Health Pathology North, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, Australia
| | - Martin B Delatycki
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Australia ; Bruce Lefroy Centre for Genetic Health Research, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
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Massie J, Ioannou L, Delatycki M. Prenatal and preconception population carrier screening for cystic fibrosis in Australia: where are we up to? Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol 2014; 54:503-9. [PMID: 25350764 DOI: 10.1111/ajo.12255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2014] [Accepted: 08/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
AIMS To describe prenatal and preconception population carrier screening for cystic fibrosis (CF) in Australia and consider progress towards establishing a universal program. METHOD Medline and Embase databases (1989-2013) were searched for all publications with Australian data. Existing programs for CF carrier screening in Australia were reviewed and professional peak body websites accessed to determine recommendations. RESULTS Twenty-two studies met the inclusion criteria. Key stakeholder groups believe that prenatal and preconception carrier screening for CF should be available. Health-economic analyses support that CF carrier screening can be cost-effective. There are small programs for CF carrier screening, in Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. The Human Genetics Society of Australasia (HGSA) specifically recommend that screening be offered to women and couples planning a pregnancy and in the early stages of pregnancy. Other peak bodies indirectly endorse the availability of CF carrier screening. Barriers to screening include not being offered screening, the cost of testing, inequity of access and an incorrect perception that not having a family history of CF lowers risk. CONCLUSIONS There is support for prenatal and preconception CF carrier screening by the community, health professionals and peak professional bodies in Australia. The barriers to development of a national screening program could be overcome with greater physician engagement and government support. IMPLICATIONS In the interest of equity, government funded testing should be routinely offered to all pregnant women and couples planning a pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Massie
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Cunningham F, Lewis S, Curnow L, Glazner J, Massie J. Respiratory physicians and clinic coordinators' attitudes to population-based cystic fibrosis carrier screening. J Cyst Fibros 2013; 13:99-105. [PMID: 23891279 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcf.2013.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2013] [Revised: 06/24/2013] [Accepted: 06/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Attitudes of Australian CF healthcare professionals toward population-based cystic fibrosis (CF) carrier screening were examined. METHOD A purpose-designed questionnaire was distributed to 111 respiratory physicians and 30 CF clinic coordinators throughout Australia. RESULTS Seventy-one questionnaires (52 physicians and 19 coordinators (46.8%, 63.3% respectively)) were returned. Forty respondents (56.3%) supported population-based carrier screening for CF. Support for screening was associated with rating the factors: carrier risk being 1 in 25 (OR 1.72 (1.12, 2.65)), reassurance when both partners test negative (OR 1.67 (1.12, 2.46)) and the daily treatment regimen for CF patients (OR 1.59 (1.05, 2.42)) as important. Opposition to screening was associated with identifying potential discrimination against carriers as a disadvantage (OR 0.3 (0.12, 0.88)), and limitations of predicting clinical outcomes as a barrier (OR 0.46 (0.25, 0.83)). CONCLUSIONS There is moderate support for population-based carrier screening for CF by Australian CF healthcare professionals. Perceived barriers to implementation are surmountable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Cunningham
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, 3052, Australia
| | - Sharon Lewis
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, 3052, Australia
| | - Lisette Curnow
- Genetic Health Services Victoria, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, 3052, Australia
| | - Judith Glazner
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, 3052, Australia
| | - John Massie
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, 3052, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, 3052, Australia; Department of Respiratory Medicine, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, 3052, Australia.
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'No thanks'-reasons why pregnant women declined an offer of cystic fibrosis carrier screening. J Community Genet 2013; 5:109-17. [PMID: 23715719 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-013-0151-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2012] [Accepted: 05/17/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to assess attitudes and opinions of women declining the offer of cystic fibrosis (CF) carrier screening through a population-based programme in Victoria, Australia. Between December 2009 and May 2011, women declining an offer of CF carrier screening were invited to participate in a questionnaire-based study. Recruitment was at two private obstetric ultrasound clinics and two private obstetric practices in Melbourne. Of the participants (n = 54), the majority were well educated (76%), aged 30-34 years (54%), with a household income of >AUD$100,000 (76%). Compared to those who accepted screening (reported in a previous study) (Ioannou et al., Public Health Genomics 13:449-56, 2010), knowledge levels were significantly lower in participants declining screening (t = 3.32, p < 0.01). The main reasons for declining screening were having no family history of CF (58%) and not considering a termination of pregnancy for CF (53%). Providers and consumers should be informed that most children born with autosomal-recessive conditions such as CF have no family history of the condition.
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