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Bakhsh H. Retrospective Analysis of Effective Management Strategies for Primary Amenorrhea of Reproductive Age in Saudi Arabia. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:772. [PMID: 38929754 PMCID: PMC11204569 DOI: 10.3390/life14060772] [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: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 06/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Primary amenorrhea, the absence of menstruation by age 15, can have significant implications for reproductive health and overall well-being. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of various management strategies for primary amenorrhea among women of reproductive age in Saudi Arabia. Medical records of 63 eligible patients from 2018 to 2023 were analyzed, assessing diagnostic methods, treatment modalities, and associated outcomes. The findings revealed that hormonal therapy was the most commonly employed management strategy (50.0%) and demonstrated the highest rate of achieving menstrual regularity (62.5%). Surgical interventions were utilized in 28.1% of cases, with a 50.0% rate of symptom resolution. Lifestyle modifications were less frequent (21.9%) but showed a moderate rate of symptom resolution (35.7%). Logistic regression analysis identified age, underlying etiology, and management strategy as significant predictors of treatment success. Subgroup analyses highlighted the efficacy of hormonal therapy and lifestyle modifications for genetic etiologies, while surgical interventions were more effective for anatomical causes. The study underscores the importance of a comprehensive diagnostic approach and personalized treatment plans tailored to individual patient characteristics. Despite limitations, the findings contribute to the understanding of optimal management strategies for primary amenorrhea and emphasize the need for multidisciplinary collaboration in addressing this complex condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanadi Bakhsh
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11564, Saudi Arabia;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz University Hospital, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
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2
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de Frutos F, Caraballo Ramos I, Martínez Chaves V, Corral Azor AM, Berchíd Débdi MS, García-Pavía P. Results of a population screening program for hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis. REVISTA ESPANOLA DE CARDIOLOGIA (ENGLISH ED.) 2024; 77:498-500. [PMID: 38220055 DOI: 10.1016/j.rec.2023.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Fernando de Frutos
- Unidad de Insuficiencia Cardiaca y Cardiopatías Familiares, Servicio de Cardiología, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Puerta de Hierro-Segovia de Arana (IDIPHISA), Madrid, Spain; Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Spain
| | | | | | | | | | - Pablo García-Pavía
- Unidad de Insuficiencia Cardiaca y Cardiopatías Familiares, Servicio de Cardiología, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Puerta de Hierro-Segovia de Arana (IDIPHISA), Madrid, Spain; Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Spain; Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, Spain.
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3
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Cornel MC, van der Meij KRM, van El CG, Rigter T, Henneman L. Genetic Screening-Emerging Issues. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:581. [PMID: 38790210 PMCID: PMC11121342 DOI: 10.3390/genes15050581] [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: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
In many countries, some form of genetic screening is offered to all or part of the population, either in the form of well-organized screening programs or in a less formalized way. Screening can be offered at different phases of life, such as preconception, prenatal, neonatal and later in life. Screening should only be offered if the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. Technical innovations in testing and treatment are driving changes in the field of prenatal and neonatal screening, where many jurisdictions have organized population-based screening programs. As a result, a greater number and wider range of conditions are being added to the programs, which can benefit couples' reproductive autonomy (preconception and prenatal screening) and improve early diagnosis to prevent irreversible health damage in children (neonatal screening) and in adults (cancer and cascade screening). While many developments in screening are technology-driven, citizens may also express a demand for innovation in screening, as was the case with non-invasive prenatal testing. Relatively new emerging issues for genetic screening, especially if testing is performed using DNA sequencing, relate to organization, data storage and interpretation, benefit-harm ratio and distributive justice, information provision and follow-up, all connected to acceptability in current healthcare systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina C. Cornel
- Section Community Genetics, Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1007 MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Karuna R. M. van der Meij
- Section Community Genetics, Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1007 MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carla G. van El
- Section Community Genetics, Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1007 MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tessel Rigter
- Section Community Genetics, Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1007 MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lidewij Henneman
- Section Community Genetics, Department of Human Genetics, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1007 MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, 1100 DD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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4
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Reščenko R, Brīvība M, Atava I, Rovīte V, Pečulis R, Silamiķelis I, Ansone L, Megnis K, Birzniece L, Leja M, Xu L, Shi X, Zhou Y, Slaitas A, Hou Y, Kloviņš J. Whole-Genome Sequencing of 502 Individuals from Latvia: The First Step towards a Population-Specific Reference of Genetic Variation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15345. [PMID: 37895026 PMCID: PMC10607061 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015345] [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: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite rapid improvements in the accessibility of whole-genome sequencing (WGS), understanding the extent of human genetic variation is limited by the scarce availability of genome sequences from underrepresented populations. Developing the population-scale reference database of Latvian genetic variation may fill the gap in European genomes and improve human genomics research. In this study, we analysed a high-coverage WGS dataset comprising 502 individuals selected from the Genome Database of the Latvian Population. An assessment of variant type, location in the genome, function, medical relevance, and novelty was performed, and a population-specific imputation reference panel (IRP) was developed. We identified more than 18.2 million variants in total, of which 3.3% so far are not represented in gnomAD and dbSNP databases. Moreover, we observed a notable though distinct clustering of the Latvian cohort within the European subpopulations. Finally, our findings demonstrate the improved performance of imputation of variants using the Latvian population-specific reference panel in the Latvian population compared to established IRPs. In summary, our study provides the first WGS data for a regional reference genome that will serve as a resource for the development of precision medicine and complement the global genome dataset, improving the understanding of human genetic variation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raimonds Reščenko
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia; (M.B.); (I.A.); (V.R.); (R.P.); (I.S.); (L.A.); (K.M.); (L.B.); (J.K.)
| | - Monta Brīvība
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia; (M.B.); (I.A.); (V.R.); (R.P.); (I.S.); (L.A.); (K.M.); (L.B.); (J.K.)
| | - Ivanna Atava
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia; (M.B.); (I.A.); (V.R.); (R.P.); (I.S.); (L.A.); (K.M.); (L.B.); (J.K.)
| | - Vita Rovīte
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia; (M.B.); (I.A.); (V.R.); (R.P.); (I.S.); (L.A.); (K.M.); (L.B.); (J.K.)
| | - Raitis Pečulis
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia; (M.B.); (I.A.); (V.R.); (R.P.); (I.S.); (L.A.); (K.M.); (L.B.); (J.K.)
| | - Ivars Silamiķelis
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia; (M.B.); (I.A.); (V.R.); (R.P.); (I.S.); (L.A.); (K.M.); (L.B.); (J.K.)
| | - Laura Ansone
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia; (M.B.); (I.A.); (V.R.); (R.P.); (I.S.); (L.A.); (K.M.); (L.B.); (J.K.)
| | - Kaspars Megnis
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia; (M.B.); (I.A.); (V.R.); (R.P.); (I.S.); (L.A.); (K.M.); (L.B.); (J.K.)
| | - Līga Birzniece
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia; (M.B.); (I.A.); (V.R.); (R.P.); (I.S.); (L.A.); (K.M.); (L.B.); (J.K.)
| | - Mārcis Leja
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Latvia, LV-1004 Riga, Latvia;
- Institute of Clinical and Preventive Medicine, University of Latvia, LV-1079 Riga, Latvia
| | - Liqin Xu
- Latvia MGI Tech, LV-2167 Mārupe, Latvia; (L.X.); (X.S.); (Y.Z.); (A.S.); (Y.H.)
| | - Xulian Shi
- Latvia MGI Tech, LV-2167 Mārupe, Latvia; (L.X.); (X.S.); (Y.Z.); (A.S.); (Y.H.)
| | - Yan Zhou
- Latvia MGI Tech, LV-2167 Mārupe, Latvia; (L.X.); (X.S.); (Y.Z.); (A.S.); (Y.H.)
| | - Andis Slaitas
- Latvia MGI Tech, LV-2167 Mārupe, Latvia; (L.X.); (X.S.); (Y.Z.); (A.S.); (Y.H.)
| | - Yong Hou
- Latvia MGI Tech, LV-2167 Mārupe, Latvia; (L.X.); (X.S.); (Y.Z.); (A.S.); (Y.H.)
| | - Jānis Kloviņš
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia; (M.B.); (I.A.); (V.R.); (R.P.); (I.S.); (L.A.); (K.M.); (L.B.); (J.K.)
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5
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Harris AR, Walker MJ, Gilbert F, McGivern P. Investigating the feasibility and ethical implications of phenotypic screening using stem cell-derived tissue models to detect and manage disease. Stem Cell Reports 2022; 17:1023-1032. [PMID: 35487211 PMCID: PMC9133639 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2022.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem-cell-derived tissue models generated from sick people are being used to understand human development and disease, drug development, and drug screening. However, it is possible to detect disease phenotypes before a patient displays symptoms, allowing for their use as a disease screening tool. This raises numerous issues, some of which can be addressed using similar approaches from genetic screenings, while others are unique. One issue is the relationship between disease disposition, biomarker detection, and patient symptoms and how tissue models could be used to define disease. Other issues include decisions of when to screen, what diseases to screen for, and what treatment options should be offered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander R Harris
- Aikenhead Centre for Medical Discovery, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia.
| | - Mary Jean Walker
- Department of Politics, Media, and Philosophy, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia
| | - Frederic Gilbert
- School of Humanities, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Patrick McGivern
- School of Humanities and Social Inquiry, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
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6
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Receiving results of uncertain clinical relevance from population genetic screening: systematic review & meta-synthesis of qualitative research. Eur J Hum Genet 2022; 30:520-531. [PMID: 35256770 PMCID: PMC9090782 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-022-01054-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic screening can be hugely beneficial, yet its expansion poses clinical and ethical challenges due to results of uncertain clinical relevance (such as ‘cystic fibrosis screen positive, inconclusive diagnosis’/CFSPID). This review systematically identifies, appraises, and synthesises the qualitative research on experiences of receiving results of uncertain clinical relevance from population genetic screening. Eight databases were systematically searched for original qualitative research using the SPIDER framework, and checked against inclusion criteria by the research team and an independent researcher. Nine papers were included (from USA, Canada, UK, New Zealand). PRISMA, ENTREQ, and EMERGE guidance were used to report. Quality was appraised using criteria for qualitative research. All papers focused on parental responses to uncertain results from newborn screening. Data were synthesised using meta-ethnography and first- and second-order constructs. Findings suggest that results of uncertain clinical relevance are often experienced in the same way as a ‘full-blown’ diagnosis. This has significant emotional and behavioural impact, for example adoption of lifestyle-altering disease-focused behaviours. Analysis suggests this may be due to the results not fitting a common medical model, leading recipients to interpret the significance of the result maladaptively. Findings suggest scope for professionals to negotiate and reframe uncertain screening results. Clearer initial communication is needed to reassure recipients there is no immediate severe health risk from these types of results. Public understanding of an appropriate medical model, that accounts for uncertain genetic screening results in a non-threatening way, may be key to maximising the benefits of genomic medicine and minimising potential psychological harm.
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7
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Ahmed S, Jafri H, Faran M, Ahmed WN, Rashid Y, Ehsan Y, Ahmed M. Cascade screening for beta-thalassaemia in Pakistan: relatives' experiences of a decision support intervention in routine practice. Eur J Hum Genet 2022; 30:406-412. [PMID: 34608271 PMCID: PMC8991204 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-021-00974-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Low uptake of cascade screening for βeta-thalassaemia major (β-TM) in the 'Punjab Thalassaemia Prevention Project' (PTPP) in Pakistan led to the development of a 'decision support intervention for relatives' (DeSIRe). This paper presents the experiences of relatives of children with β-TM of the DeSIRe following its use by PTPP field officers (FOs) in routine clinical practice. Fifty-four semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted (April to June 2021) with relatives in seven cities in the Punjab province (Lahore, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahab, Kasur, Gujranwala, Multan and Faisalabad). Thematic analysis shows that participants were satisfied with the content of the DeSIRe and its delivery by the FOs in a family meeting. They understood that the main purpose of the DeSIRe was to improve their knowledge of β-TM and its inheritance, and to enable them to make decisions about thalassaemia carrier testing, particularly before marriage. Participants also raised concerns about the stigma of testing positive; however, they believed the DeSIRe was an appropriate intervention, which supported relatives to make informed decisions. Our findings show that the DeSIRe is appropriate for use by healthcare professionals in routine practice in a low-middle income country, and has the potential to facilitate shared decision making about cascade screening for thalassaemia. Further research is needed to prove the efficacy of the DeSIRe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenaz Ahmed
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK.
| | - Hussain Jafri
- Thalassaemia Society Pakistan, Lahore, Pakistan
- Fatima Jinnah Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
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8
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Maftei A, Dănilă O. The good, the bad, and the utilitarian: attitudes towards genetic testing and implications for disability. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 42:1-22. [PMID: 35068904 PMCID: PMC8761521 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-021-02568-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
The present study focused on the link between the attitudes towards genetic testing and views on selective reproduction choices following genetic testing. First, we explored the potential demographical (age, gender, number of children, relationship status) and personal factors (perceived morality, religiosity, parenting intentions, instrumental harm) underlying these attitudes using a specific moral psychology approach, i.e., the two-dimension model of utilitarianism (i.e., instrumental harm and impartial beneficence). Next, we investigated participants' hypothetical reproduction choices depending on the future child's potential future condition, assessed through genetic screening. Our sample consisted of 1627 Romanian adults aged 17 to 70 (M = 24.46). Results indicated that one's perceived morality was the strongest predictor of positive attitudes towards genetic testing, and instrumental harm was the strongest predictor of negative attitudes. Also, more religious individuals with more children had more moral concerns related to genetic testing. Participants considered Down syndrome as the condition that parents (others than themselves) should most take into account when deciding to have children (35%), followed by progressive muscular dystrophy (29.1%) and major depressive disorder (29%). When expressing their choices for their future children (i.e., pregnancy termination decisions), participants' knowledge about potential deafness in their children generated the most frequent (37.7%) definitive termination decisions (i.e., "definitely yes" answers), followed by schizophrenia (35.8%), and major depressive disorder (35.2%). Finally, we discuss our results concerning their practical implications for disability and prenatal screening ethical controversies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Maftei
- Department of Educational Sciences, Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iaşi, 3 Toma Cozma Street, Iasi, Romania
| | - Oana Dănilă
- Department of Educational Sciences, Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iaşi, 3 Toma Cozma Street, Iasi, Romania
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9
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Findlay GM. Linking genome variants to disease: scalable approaches to test the functional impact of human mutations. Hum Mol Genet 2021; 30:R187-R197. [PMID: 34338757 PMCID: PMC8490018 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddab219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The application of genomics to medicine has accelerated the discovery of mutations underlying disease and has enhanced our knowledge of the molecular underpinnings of diverse pathologies. As the amount of human genetic material queried via sequencing has grown exponentially in recent years, so too has the number of rare variants observed. Despite progress, our ability to distinguish which rare variants have clinical significance remains limited. Over the last decade, however, powerful experimental approaches have emerged to characterize variant effects orders of magnitude faster than before. Fueled by improved DNA synthesis and sequencing and, more recently, by CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, multiplex functional assays provide a means of generating variant effect data in wide-ranging experimental systems. Here, I review recent applications of multiplex assays that link human variants to disease phenotypes and I describe emerging strategies that will enhance their clinical utility in coming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory M Findlay
- The Francis Crick Institute, The Genome Function Laboratory, London NW1 1AT, UK
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10
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Ali Alghamdi M, Alrasheedi A, Alghamdi E, Adly N, AlAali WY, Alhashem A, Alshahrani A, Shamseldin H, Alkuraya FS, Alfadhel M. Molecular autopsy by proxy in preconception counseling. Clin Genet 2021; 100:678-691. [PMID: 34406647 PMCID: PMC9290025 DOI: 10.1111/cge.14049] [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: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Monogenic diseases that result in early pregnancy loss or neonatal death are genetically and phenotypically highly variable. This often poses significant challenges in arriving at a molecular diagnosis for reproductive planning. Molecular autopsy by proxy (MABP) refers to the genetic testing of relatives of deceased individuals to deduce the cause of death. Here, we specifically tested couples who lost one or more children/pregnancies with no available DNA. We developed our testing strategy using whole exome sequencing data from 83 consanguineous Saudi couples. We detected the shared carrier state of 50 pathogenic variants/likely pathogenic variants in 43 families and of 28 variants of uncertain significance in 24 families. Negative results were seen in 16 couples after variant reclassification. In 10 families, the risk of more than one genetic disease was documented. Secondary findings were seen in 10 families: either genetic variants with potential clinical consequences for the tested individual or a female carrier for X‐linked conditions. This couple‐based approach has enabled molecularly informed genetic counseling for 52% (43/83 families). Given the predominance of autosomal recessive causes of pregnancy and child death in consanguineous populations, MABP can be a helpful approach to consanguineous couples who seek counseling but lack molecular data on their deceased offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malak Ali Alghamdi
- Medical Genetic Division, Pediatric Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Medical Genetics Division, Department of Pediatrics, King Saud University Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ameinah Alrasheedi
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Al Qassim, Saudi Arabia
| | - Esra Alghamdi
- College of Medicine, Imam Mohammed Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nouran Adly
- College of Medicine Research Center, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wajeih Y AlAali
- Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Pediatrics, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amal Alhashem
- Department of Pediatrics, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Hanan Shamseldin
- Department of Translational Genomics, Center for Genomic Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fowzan S Alkuraya
- Department of Translational Genomics, Center for Genomic Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Majid Alfadhel
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Ministry of National Guard-Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Genetics and Precision Medicine department, King Abdullah Specialized Children Hospital, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Ministry of National Guard-Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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11
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Quaio CRDC, Chung CH, Perazzio SF, Dutra AP, Moreira CM, Filho GMN, Sacramento-Bobotis PR, Penna MG, de Souza RRF, Cintra VP, Carnavalli JEP, da Silva RA, Paixão D, Baratela WADR, Olivati C, Spolador GM, Santos MNP, Pintao MC, Fornari ARDS, Burger M, Ramalho RF, Pereira OJE, E Ferreira EN, Mitne-Neto M, Kim CA. Frequency of carriers for rare recessive Mendelian diseases in a Brazilian cohort of 320 patients. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS PART C-SEMINARS IN MEDICAL GENETICS 2021; 187:364-372. [PMID: 34269512 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.c.31932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Several Mendelian disorders follow an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern. Epidemiological information on many inherited disorders may be useful to guide health policies for rare diseases, but it is often inadequate, particularly in developing countries. We aimed to calculate the carrier frequencies of rare autosomal recessive Mendelian diseases in a cohort of Brazilian patients using whole exome sequencing (WES). We reviewed the molecular findings of WES from 320 symptomatic patients who had carrier status for recessive diseases. Using the Hardy-Weinberg equation, we estimated recessive disease frequencies (q2 ) considering the respective carrier frequencies (2pq) observed in our study. We calculated the sensitivity of carrier screening tests based on lists of genes from five different clinical laboratories that offer them in Brazil. A total of 425 occurrences of 351 rare variants were reported in 278 different genes from 230 patients (71.9%). Almost half (48.8%) were carriers of at least one heterozygous pathogenic/likely pathogenic variant for rare metabolic disorders, while 25.9% of epilepsy, 18.1% of intellectual disabilities, 15.6% of skeletal disorders, 10.9% immune disorders, and 9.1% of hearing loss. We estimated that an average of 67% of the variants would not have been detected by carrier screening panels. The combined frequencies of autosomal recessive diseases were estimated to be 26.39/10,000 (or ~0.26%). This study shows the potential research utility of WES to determine carrier status, which may be a possible strategy to evaluate the clinical and social burden of recessive diseases at the population level and guide the optimization of carrier screening panels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caio Robledo D'Angioli Costa Quaio
- Instituto da Crianca (Children's Hospital), Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Fleury Medicina e Saúde, São Paulo, Brazil.,Laboratório Clínico, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Sandro Felix Perazzio
- Fleury Medicina e Saúde, São Paulo, Brazil.,Division of Rheumatology, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Rafael Alves da Silva
- Fleury Medicina e Saúde, São Paulo, Brazil.,Laboratório de Hepatologia Molecular Aplicada (LHeMA), Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Gustavo Marquezani Spolador
- Instituto da Crianca (Children's Hospital), Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Fleury Medicina e Saúde, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Chong Ae Kim
- Instituto da Crianca (Children's Hospital), Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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12
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Fok RWY, Ong CSB, Lie D, Ishak D, Fung SM, Tang WE, Sun S, Smith H, Ngeow JYY. How practice setting affects family physicians' views on genetic screening: a qualitative study. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2021; 22:141. [PMID: 34210270 PMCID: PMC8247620 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-021-01492-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genetic screening (GS), defined as the clinical testing of a population to identify asymptomatic individuals with the aim of providing those identified as high risk with prevention, early treatment, or reproductive options. Genetic screening (GS) improves patient outcomes and is accessible to the community. Family physicians (FPs) are ideally placed to offer GS. There is a need for FPs to adopt GS to address anticipated genetic specialist shortages. OBJECTIVE To explore FP attitudes, perceived roles, motivators and barriers, towards GS; and explore similarities and differences between private and public sector FPs. METHODS We developed a semi-structured interview guide using existing literature. We interviewed private and public sector FPs recruited by purposive, convenience and snowballing strategies, by telephone or video to theme saturation. All sessions were audio-recorded, transcribed and coded for themes by two independent researchers with an adjudicator. RESULTS Thirty FPs were interviewed (15 private, 15 public). Theme saturation was reached for each group. A total of 12 themes (6 common, 3 from private-practice participants, 3 public-employed participants) emerged. Six common major themes emerged: personal lack of training and experience, roles and relevance of GS to family medicine, reluctance and resistance to adding GS to practice, FP motivations for adoption, patient factors as barrier, and potential solutions. Three themes (all facilitators) were unique to the private group: strong rapport with patients, high practice autonomy, and high patient literacy. Three themes (all barriers) were unique to the public group: lack of control, patients' lower socioeconomic status, and rigid administrative infrastructure. CONCLUSION FPs are motivated to incorporate GS but need support for implementation. Policy-makers should consider the practice setting when introducing new screening functions. Strategies to change FP behaviours should be sensitive to their sense of autonomy, and the external factors (either as facilitators or as barriers) shaping FP practices in a given clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rose Wai-Yee Fok
- Cancer Genetics Service, Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Cheryl Siow Bin Ong
- Sociology, School of Social Sciences and Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Désirée Lie
- Signature Programme in Health Services and Systems Research, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Diana Ishak
- Cancer Genetics Service, Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Si Ming Fung
- Cancer Genetics Service, Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wern Ee Tang
- National Healthcare Group Polyclinics, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Shirley Sun
- Sociology, School of Social Sciences and Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Helen Smith
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, 11 Mandalay Road, Singapore, 308282, Singapore
| | - Joanne Yuen Yie Ngeow
- Cancer Genetics Service, Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, 11 Mandalay Road, Singapore, 308282, Singapore.
- Oncology Academic Clinical Program, Duke NUS Medical School, National University Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
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Ahmed S, Jafri H, Rashid Y, Ehsan Y, Bashir S, Ahmed M. Cascade screening for beta-thalassemia in Pakistan: development, feasibility and acceptability of a decision support intervention for relatives. Eur J Hum Genet 2021; 30:73-80. [PMID: 34121090 PMCID: PMC8200315 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-021-00918-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The government-funded ‘Punjab Thalassaemia Prevention Project’ (PTPP) in Pakistan includes cascade screening for biological relatives of children with beta-Thalassaemia Major (β-TM). However, there is low uptake of cascade screening. This paper presents the (i) development of a paper-based ‘decision support intervention for relatives’ (DeSIRe) to enable PTPP Field Officers to facilitate informed decision making about carrier testing, and (ii) assessment of the feasibility and acceptability of the DeSIRe. The intervention was developed using the International Patient Decision Aids Standards quality criteria and Ottawa Decision Support Framework. Twelve focus groups were conducted (September and October 2020) to explore the views of healthcare professionals (HCPs) and relatives of children with β-TM, in six cities. The focus groups were attended by 117 participants (60 HCPs and 57 relatives). Thematic analysis showed that the DeSIRe was considered acceptable for supporting relatives to make informed decisions about cascade screening, and potentially feasible for use in clinical practice. Suggestions for changing some words, the structure and adding information about how carrier testing relates to consanguineous marriages will enable further development of the DeSIRe. Participants generally welcomed the DeSIRe; however, they highlighted the perceived need to use more directive language, hence showed a cultural preference for directive genetic counselling. The findings highlight challenges for researchers using western theories, frameworks, policies and clinical guidelines to develop decision support interventions for implementation more globally. Future research is needed to evaluate the use of the DeSIRe in routine practice and whether it enables relatives to make informed decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenaz Ahmed
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK.
| | | | | | | | - Shabnam Bashir
- Punjab Thalassaemia Prevention Project, Lahore, Pakistan
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14
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Cornel MC, Rigter T, Jansen ME, Henneman L. Neonatal and carrier screening for rare diseases: how innovation challenges screening criteria worldwide. J Community Genet 2021; 12:257-265. [PMID: 33074550 PMCID: PMC8141077 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-020-00488-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Screening for rare diseases first began more than 50 years ago with neonatal bloodspot screening (NBS) for phenylketonuria, and carrier screening for Tay-Sachs disease, sickle cell anaemia and β-thalassaemia. NBS's primary aim is health gain for children, while carrier screening enables autonomous reproductive choice. While screening can be beneficial, it also has the potential to cause harm and thus decisions are needed on whether a specific screening is worthwhile. These decisions are usually based on screening principles and criteria. Technological developments, both treatment driven and test driven, have led to expansions in neonatal screening and carrier screening. This article demonstrates how the dynamics and expansions in NBS and carrier screening have challenged four well-known screening criteria (treatment, test, target population and programme evaluation), and the decision-making based on them. We show that shifting perspectives on screening criteria for NBS as well as carrier screening lead to converging debates in these separate fields. For example, the child is traditionally considered to be the beneficiary in NBS, but the family and society can also benefit. Vice versa, carrier screening may be driven by disease prevention, rather than reproductive autonomy, raising cross-disciplinary questions regarding potential beneficiaries and which diseases to include. In addition, the stakeholders from these separate fields vary: Globally NBS is often governed as a public health programme while carrier screening is usually available via medical professionals. The article concludes with a call for an exchange of vision and knowledge among all stakeholders of both fields to attune the dynamics of screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina C Cornel
- Clinical Genetics, Section Community Genetics, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Tessel Rigter
- Clinical Genetics, Section Community Genetics, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marleen E Jansen
- Clinical Genetics, Section Community Genetics, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lidewij Henneman
- Clinical Genetics, Section Community Genetics, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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15
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Lewis ACF, Green RC. Polygenic risk scores in the clinic: new perspectives needed on familiar ethical issues. Genome Med 2021; 13:14. [PMID: 33509269 PMCID: PMC7844961 DOI: 10.1186/s13073-021-00829-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical use of polygenic risk scores (PRS) will look very different to the more familiar monogenic testing. Here we argue that despite these differences, most of the ethical, legal, and social issues (ELSI) raised in the monogenic setting, such as the relevance of results to family members, the approach to secondary and incidental findings, and the role of expert mediators, continue to be relevant in the polygenic context, albeit in modified form. In addition, PRS will reanimate other old debates. Their use has been proposed both in the practice of clinical medicine and of public health, two contexts with differing norms. In each of these domains, it is unclear what endpoints clinical use of PRS should aim to maximize and under what constraints. Reducing health disparities is a key value for public health, but clinical use of PRS could exacerbate race-based health disparities owing to differences in predictive power across ancestry groups. Finally, PRS will force a reckoning with pre-existing questions concerning biomarkers, namely the relevance of self-reported race, ethnicity and ancestry, and the relationship of risk factors to disease diagnoses. In this Opinion, we argue that despite the parallels to the monogenic setting, new work is urgently needed to gather data, consider normative implications, and develop best practices around this emerging branch of genomics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna C F Lewis
- E J Safra Center for Ethics, Harvard University, 124 Mount Auburn, Street, Cambridge, 02138, USA.
| | - Robert C Green
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis St, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Ariadne Labs, 401 Park Dr 3rd Floor, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, 415 Main St, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
- Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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16
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Altaany Z, Khabour OF, Alzoubi KH, Alkaraki AK, Al-Taani G. The Perception of Premarital Genetic Screening within Young Jordanian Individuals. Public Health Genomics 2021; 24:182-188. [PMID: 34192692 PMCID: PMC9984666 DOI: 10.1159/000517162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the past two decades, the attention of public health has been drawn to premarital genetic screening (PGS) programs to reduce birth defects and avoid genetic disorders. In Jordan, the high rate of genetic hemoglobinopathies compelled the government to implement an obligatory PGS program before marriage. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the knowledge, opinion, and practice of young Jordanians concerning PGS. METHODS Using a pretested questionnaire, this cross-sectional study was conducted on a convenience sample from Jordan. The measures included respondents' demographics, and beliefs/opinions regarding PGS. RESULTS A total of 432 participants completed the survey. The majority (87.8%) had a positive attitude toward PGS program. Reasons behind this positive attitude were preventing transmission of genetic diseases, reducing family breakdown/psychosocial problems, and financial burdens of having a child with genetic disease. In fact, 49.8% of participants were willing to change their marriage decision in case of receiving incompatible results. Moreover, most of the participants (75.1%) demanded the implementation of a law that prohibits incompatible marriages. A positive attitude toward PGS was found to be associated with female gender and having a university education. CONCLUSIONS Young Jordanians have a positive attitude toward the implementation of PGS. Yet, educational programs should be drawn up to the target population before getting married emphasizing the important role of PGS in the wellness of the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaid Altaany
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Omar F. Khabour
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Karem H. Alzoubi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Almuthanna K. Alkaraki
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Ghaith Al-Taani
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
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17
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Gabis LV, Shefer S, Raas-Rothschild A. Ethical Dilemmas Linked to Fragile X Testing of Minors—a Preliminary Survey Among Professionals. J Mol Neurosci 2020; 70:254-259. [DOI: 10.1007/s12031-019-01445-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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18
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Sandler S, Alfino L, Saleem M. The importance of preventative medicine in conjunction with modern day genetic studies. Genes Dis 2018; 5:107-111. [PMID: 30258938 PMCID: PMC6146230 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2018.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic screening in the primary care setting is the future of preventative medicine. Genetic testing is an important medical tool for assessing various inheritable diseases, conditions, and cancers. The ability to diagnose patients before symptoms surface can help lessen the severity of symptoms and promote quality of life. However, genetic screening can cause psychological distress from the knowledge of test results, in some cases only serving to increase the risk of developing a condition due to stress. Genetic testing can be conducted anytime in life, even before birth. In this review, a compilation of genetic testing's definitions and boundaries, factors influencing an individual's test outcomes, and an overview of a wide variety of diseases, conditions and cancers were collected.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mir Saleem
- NOVA Southeastern University, United States
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19
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Metcalfe SA. Genetic counselling, patient education, and informed decision-making in the genomic era. Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2018; 23:142-149. [PMID: 29233487 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2017.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Genomic technologies are now being applied to reproductive genetic screening. Circulating cell-free DNA testing in pregnancy for fetal chromosomal abnormalities is becoming more widely used as a screening test, and expanded carrier screening for autosomal and X-linked recessive conditions for more than a hundred conditions is available to couples for testing before and during pregnancy. These are most typically available as a commercial test. The purpose of reproductive genetic screening is to facilitate autonomous reproductive choices. Previous studies would suggest that many women do not make informed decisions about prenatal genetic screening, and the introduction of genomic technologies has generally added to the ethical debate. Appropriate pre-test genetic counselling is recommended, and healthcare providers should include information that is balanced, accurate and up-to-date, comprising written and/or e-learning tools, as well as providing psychosocial support so that couples consider the pros and cons of being tested and can make informed decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia A Metcalfe
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
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20
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Metcalfe SA, Martyn M, Ames A, Anderson V, Archibald AD, Couns GDG, Carter R, Cohen J, Cotter M, GenCouns M, Dang W, Delatycki MB, Donath S, Edwards S, Educ PGD, Couns GDG, Forbes R, Couns GDG, Gavrila M, MedSci M, Halliday J, Hickerton C, Hill M, Couns GDG, Jacobs L, Ultrasound PGD, Petrou V, Couns GDG, Plunkett L, GenCouns M, Sheffield L, Racp F, Thornton A, Couns GDG, Younie S, Econ PGDH, Emery JD. Informed decision making and psychosocial outcomes in pregnant and nonpregnant women offered population fragile X carrier screening. Genet Med 2017; 19:1346-1355. [PMID: 28661491 DOI: 10.1038/gim.2017.67] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2017] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
PurposePopulation-based carrier screening for fragile X syndrome (FXS) is still not universally endorsed by professional organizations due to concerns around genetic counseling for complex information and potential for psychosocial harms.MethodsWe determined uptake levels, decision making, and psychosocial impact in a prospective study of pregnant and nonpregnant Australian women offered FXS carrier screening in clinical settings. Women received pretest genetic counseling, and completed questionnaires when deciding and one month later.ResultsOf 1,156 women recruited, 83.1% returned the first questionnaire with 70.6% nonpregnant and 58.8% pregnant women choosing testing (χ2=16.98, P<0.001). Overall, informed choice was high in both nonpregnant (77.4%) and pregnant (72.9%) women (χ2=0.21, P=0.644), and more tested (76.0%) than not-tested (66.7%) women (χ2=6.35, P=0.012) made an informed choice. Measures of depression, stress, and anxiety were similar to population norms for ~85% of women. Decisional conflict and regret were generally low; however, decisional uncertainty and regret were greater in pregnant than nonpregnant women, and not-tested than tested women (uncertainty: χ2=18.51, P<0.001 and χ2=43.11, P<0.001, respectively; regret: χ2=6.61, P<0.037 and χ2=35.54, P<0.001, respectively).ConclusionWe provide evidence to inform guidelines that population FXS carrier screening can be implemented with minimal psychosocial harms following appropriate information and prescreening genetic counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia A Metcalfe
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Melissa Martyn
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alice Ames
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Vicki Anderson
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alison D Archibald
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Grad Dip Gen Couns
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rob Carter
- Faculty of Health, Deakin Health Economics, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jonathan Cohen
- Fragile X Alliance Clinic and Centre for Developmental Disability Health Victoria, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Megan Cotter
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - M GenCouns
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - William Dang
- Australian Clinical Labs (formerly Healthscope Pathology), Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Martin B Delatycki
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Susan Donath
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Samantha Edwards
- School of Primary Aboriginal and Rural Health Care, University of Western Australia
| | - PGrad Dip Educ
- School of Primary Aboriginal and Rural Health Care, University of Western Australia
| | - Grad Dip Gen Couns
- School of Primary Aboriginal and Rural Health Care, University of Western Australia
| | - Robin Forbes
- Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Mioara Gavrila
- Australian Clinical Labs (formerly Healthscope Pathology), Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - M MedSci
- Australian Clinical Labs (formerly Healthscope Pathology), Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jane Halliday
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Melissa Hill
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
| | - Grad Dip Gen Couns
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
| | - Lorilli Jacobs
- School of Primary Aboriginal and Rural Health Care, University of Western Australia
| | - PGrad Dip Ultrasound
- School of Primary Aboriginal and Rural Health Care, University of Western Australia
| | - Vicki Petrou
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Loren Plunkett
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - M GenCouns
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Leslie Sheffield
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,MyDNA Life Australia, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - F Racp
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,MyDNA Life Australia, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alison Thornton
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Sandra Younie
- Faculty of Health, Deakin Health Economics, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - PGrad Dip Hlth Econ
- Faculty of Health, Deakin Health Economics, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jon D Emery
- School of Primary Aboriginal and Rural Health Care, University of Western Australia.,Department of General Practice, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Mircher C, Toulas J, Cieuta-Walti C, Marey I, Conte M, González Briceño L, Tanguy ML, Rethore MO, Ravel A. Anthropometric charts and congenital anomalies in newborns with Down syndrome. Am J Med Genet A 2017; 173:2166-2175. [DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.38305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2016] [Revised: 05/06/2017] [Accepted: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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22
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Stapleton G. Qualifying choice: ethical reflection on the scope of prenatal screening. MEDICINE, HEALTH CARE, AND PHILOSOPHY 2017; 20:195-205. [PMID: 27631408 PMCID: PMC5487727 DOI: 10.1007/s11019-016-9725-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
In the near future developments in non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) may soon provide couples with the opportunity to test for and diagnose a much broader range of heritable and congenital conditions than has previously been possible. Inevitably, this has prompted much ethical debate on the possible implications of NIPT for providing couples with opportunities for reproductive choice by way of routine prenatal screening. In view of the possibility to test for a significantly broader range of genetic conditions with NIPT, the European Society of Human Genetics (ESHG) and American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) recommend that, pending further debate, prenatal screening for reproductive choice should only be offered where concerning serious congenital conditions and childhood disorders. In support of this recommendation, the ESHG and ASHG discuss a number of ethical issues on which they prompt further debate: the informational privacy of the future child, the trivialization of abortion, the risk of information overload, and issues of distributive justice. This paper responds to this call with further reflection on each ethical issue and how it relates to the moral justification of providing couples with opportunities for meaningful reproductive choice. The paper concludes that whilst there may be good reasons for qualifying the scope of any unsolicited prenatal screening offer to serious congenital conditions and childhood disorders, if prenatal screening is justified for providing couples with opportunities for meaningful reproductive choice, then health services may have obligations to empower couples with the same opportunity where concerning other conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greg Stapleton
- Department of Health, Ethics and Society, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
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23
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Kanaris C. Foetal surgery and using in utero therapies to reduce the degree of disability after birth. Could it be morally defensible or even morally required? MEDICINE, HEALTH CARE, AND PHILOSOPHY 2017; 20:131-146. [PMID: 27631407 DOI: 10.1007/s11019-016-9727-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
In 2008 the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act amendments made deliberately choosing to bring disability into the world, using assisted reproduction, a criminal offence. This paper considers whether the legal prohibition above, should influence other policy areas concerning the welfare of future children such as new possibilities presented by foetal surgery and in utero gene therapy. If we have legal duties to avoid disability in one context should this influence our avoidance of disability in this other context? This paper investigates whether the State might have a stake in wider promotion of practices to reduce the degree of disability in foetuses that will come to exist (as opposed to those that will be aborted). Not selecting for disability does not affect the welfare of any future individual, whereas treating in utero abnormalities can optimize the eventual child's welfare; antenatal interventions stand to improve clinical outcomes and welfare should that specific child be born. I explore why the State may want to intervene in the antenatal setting and to what extent, if at all; the State should implement these technologies. I argue that if the State is justified in intervening to outlaw the choosing to create disabled lives using assisted reproductive techniques, it is also justified in putting pressure on prospective parents to accept therapies in utero to help their child be born less disabled. However, I qualify this with the argument that the State is not justified in using force or the criminal law in this situation during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constantinos Kanaris
- Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Manchester, UK.
- The Centre for Social Ethics and Policy, School of Law, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
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24
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Population screening for BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations: lessons from qualitative analysis of the screening experience. Genet Med 2016; 19:628-634. [PMID: 27906198 DOI: 10.1038/gim.2016.175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 09/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Population screening for BRCA1/BRCA2. mutations is being considered for Ashkenazi Jews (AJ) because 2.5% carry recurrent deleterious mutations and effective cancer prevention exists. This study aimed to provide a qualitative focus on perspectives of individuals, particularly carriers, who were tested through a screening trial. In this trial, the pretest process included only written information. METHODS Interviews were performed with 26 carriers and 10 noncarriers who participated in a BRCA population screening trial for AJ. RESULTS Attitudes toward screening were generally positive. The main motivator for testing was knowledge of BRCA status to enable cancer risk reduction. Knowledge of carrier status, although challenging, was thus viewed as health-empowering. The screening paradigm was sensed as increasing awareness and as overcoming access, referral, and familial barriers. Streamlining the pretest process was positively perceived as offering gradual, stepwise knowledge commensurate with test results. Participants were concerned that health systems provide the necessary conceptual and infrastructural framework and that individual autonomy be maintained. CONCLUSIONS BRCA screening in AJ is viewed favorably, even by carriers. Stepwise acquisition of knowledge based on test results was viewed as most relevant to the screening context. Screening program development should account for safeguarding autonomy and providing requisite post-test services.Genet Med advance online publication 01 December 2016.
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Plantinga M, Birnie E, Abbott KM, Sinke RJ, Lucassen AM, Schuurmans J, Kaplan S, Verkerk MA, Ranchor AV, van Langen IM. Population-based preconception carrier screening: how potential users from the general population view a test for 50 serious diseases. Eur J Hum Genet 2016; 24:1417-23. [PMID: 27165008 PMCID: PMC5027688 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2016.43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2015] [Revised: 02/17/2016] [Accepted: 04/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
With the increased international focus on personalized health care and preventive medicine, next-generation sequencing (NGS) has substantially expanded the options for carrier screening of serious, recessively inherited diseases. NGS screening tests not only offer reproductive options not previously available to couples, but they may also ultimately reduce the number of children born with devastating disorders. To date, preconception carrier screening (PCS) has largely targeted single diseases such as cystic fibrosis, but NGS allows the testing of many genes or diseases simultaneously. We have developed an expanded NGS PCS test for couples; simultaneously it covers 50 very serious, early-onset, autosomal recessive diseases that are untreatable. This is the first, noncommercial, population-based, expanded PCS test to be offered prospectively to couples in a health-care setting in Europe. So far, little is known about how potential users view such a PCS test. We therefore performed an online survey in 2014 among 500 people from the target population in the Netherlands. We enquired about their intention to take an expanded PCS test if one was offered, and through which provider they would like to see it offered. One-third of the respondents said they would take such a test were it to be offered. The majority (44%) preferred the test to be offered via their general practitioner (GP) and 58% would be willing to pay for the test, with a median cost of [euro ]75. Our next step is to perform an implementation study in which this PCS test will be provided via selected GPs in the Northern Netherlands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirjam Plantinga
- Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Erwin Birnie
- Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Kristin M Abbott
- Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Richard J Sinke
- Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Anneke M Lucassen
- Clinical Ethics and Law, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Juliette Schuurmans
- Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Seyma Kaplan
- Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marian A Verkerk
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Adelita V Ranchor
- Department of Health Psychology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Irene M van Langen
- Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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26
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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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27
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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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28
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Pierce RL. Translational nanomedicine – through the therapeutic window. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2015; 10:3249-60. [DOI: 10.2217/nnm.15.168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Translational nanomedicine occurs only through the successful integration of multiple inputs and iterative modifications. The therapeutic window plays a pivotal role in the trajectory of translational nanomedicine. Often defined in terms of the range of dosage for safe and effective therapeutic effect, a second definition of the therapeutic window refers to the often narrow temporal window in which a therapeutic effect can be obtained. Expanding the second definition to explicitly include the spatial dimension, this article explores aspects of the therapeutic spaces created by nanomedicine that shift the traditional dimensions of symptom, sign and pathology. This article analyzes three aspects of the therapeutic window in nanomedicine – temporal, spatial and manner of construction and their impact on the dimensions of modern medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin L Pierce
- Harvard Law School, Petrie-Flom Center for Health Law & Policy, Biotechnology & Bioethics, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
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29
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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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30
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Cuevas-Cuerda D, Salas-Trejo D. Evaluation after five years of the cancer genetic counselling programme of Valencian Community (Eastern Spain). Fam Cancer 2015; 13:301-9. [PMID: 24242329 DOI: 10.1007/s10689-013-9693-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
To evaluate the cancer genetic counselling programme in Valencian Community using intermediate indicators. Descriptive analysis of organisational and effectiveness indicators from the start in 2005 until December 2010: correct referral of patients according to the area from where they were referred (primary or hospital-based care) and syndrome; families identified as having each syndrome; suitability of the genetic testing for individuals with a cancer diagnosis (index cases, IC) and relatives of ICs with mutations; family size; and results of genetic testing on genes, ICs and relatives. 9,942 individuals attended, 87.7 % were referred by hospital-based care and 8.4 % by primary care. 7,516 patients (79 %) fulfilled cancer genetic counselling criteria (82 % from hospital-based care and 46 % from primary care). Amongst those who fulfilled the criteria, 59 % of referrals were related to hereditary breast ovarian cancer syndrome and 32 % to hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer. ICs were found in 3,082 families (78.7 %) and genetic testing was carried out on 91.3 % of them. Pathogenic mutations were detected in 21.8 % of the ICs and the testing was then offered to their relatives (an average of 3 per IC). Pathogenic mutations were found in 54 % of the assessed relatives. Results in 5 years confirm the appropriateness of these facilities, as part of an integrated health service, to identify families and individuals with genetic risk to offer them personalized counselling. Improvements have to be made with regard to the information given to both health professionals and patients about the risk criteria for various syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dolores Cuevas-Cuerda
- Conselleria de Sanitat, Agència Valenciana de Salut, C/Micer Mascó 31, 46010, Valencia, Spain,
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31
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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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32
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Ames AG, Metcalfe SA, Archibald AD, Duncan RE, Emery J. Measuring informed choice in population-based reproductive genetic screening: a systematic review. Eur J Hum Genet 2015; 23:8-21. [PMID: 24848746 PMCID: PMC4266751 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2014.89] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2013] [Revised: 03/11/2014] [Accepted: 04/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic screening and health-care guidelines recommend that programmes should facilitate informed choice. It is therefore important that accurate measures of informed choice are available to evaluate such programmes. This review synthesises and appraises measures used to evaluate informed choice in population-based genetic screening programmes for reproductive risk. Databases were searched for studies offering genetic screening for the purpose of establishing reproductive risk to an adult population sample, in which aspects of informed choice were measured. Studies were included if, at a minimum, measures of uptake of screening and knowledge were used. Searches identified 1462 citations and 76 studies were reviewed in full text; 34 studies met the inclusion criteria. Over 20 different measures of informed choice were used. Many measures lacked adequate validity and reliability data. This systematic review will inform future evaluation of informed choice in population genetic screening programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Grace Ames
- Genetics Education and Health Research, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sylvia Ann Metcalfe
- Genetics Education and Health Research, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alison Dalton Archibald
- Genetics Education and Health Research, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rony Emily Duncan
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Health Services Delivery for Adolescents, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jon Emery
- General Practice and Primary Care Academic Centre, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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33
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Nicholls SG, Tessier L, Etchegary H, Brehaut JC, Potter BK, Hayeems RZ, Chakraborty P, Marcadier J, Milburn J, Pullman D, Turner L, Wilson BJ. Stakeholder attitudes towards the role and application of informed consent for newborn bloodspot screening: a study protocol. BMJ Open 2014; 4:e006782. [PMID: 25421341 PMCID: PMC4244491 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2014-006782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Newborn bloodspot screening (NBS) involves testing a small sample of blood taken from the heel of the newborn for a number of serious and life-limiting conditions. In Canada, newborn screening programmes fall under provincial and territorial jurisdiction with no federal coordination. To date, we know very little about the underlying beliefs around different consent practices or how terminology is interpreted by different individuals. Differences in attitudes may have important healthcare consequences. This study will provide empirical data comparing stakeholder opinions on their understanding of consent-related terminology, the perceived applicability of different consent approaches to newborn screening, and the requirements of these different approaches. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Parents, healthcare professionals and policymakers will be recruited in the provinces of Ontario and Newfoundland and Labrador. Parents will be identified through records held by each provincial screening programme. Healthcare professionals will be purposively sampled on the basis of engagement with newborn screening. Within each province we will identify policymakers who have policy analysis or advisory responsibilities relating to NBS. Data collection will be by qualitative interviews. We will conduct 20 interviews with parents of young children, 10 interviews with key healthcare professionals across the range of appropriate specialties and 10 with policymakers at each site (40 per site, total, N=80). The examination of the transcripts will follow a thematic analysis approach. Recruitment started in June 2014 and is expected to be complete by June 2015. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study received ethics approval from the Ottawa Health Science Network Research Ethics Board, the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Ethics Board (both Ontario), and the Health Research Ethics Authority (Newfoundland and Labrador). RESULTS These will be reported in peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations. The results will have specific application to the development of parent education materials for newborn screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- S G Nicholls
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - L Tessier
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - H Etchegary
- Clinical Epidemiology, Memorial University, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - J C Brehaut
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - B K Potter
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - R Z Hayeems
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - P Chakraborty
- Newborn Screening Ontario, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - J Marcadier
- Newborn Screening Ontario, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - J Milburn
- Better Outcomes Registry and Network (BORN), Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - D Pullman
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University, St. Johns, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - L Turner
- Eastern Health, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - B J Wilson
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Elliott PM, Anastasakis A, Borger MA, Borggrefe M, Cecchi F, Charron P, Hagege AA, Lafont A, Limongelli G, Mahrholdt H, McKenna WJ, Mogensen J, Nihoyannopoulos P, Nistri S, Pieper PG, Pieske B, Rapezzi C, Rutten FH, Tillmanns C, Watkins H. 2014 ESC Guidelines on diagnosis and management of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: the Task Force for the Diagnosis and Management of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). Eur Heart J 2014; 35:2733-79. [PMID: 25173338 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehu284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2848] [Impact Index Per Article: 284.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
MESH Headings
- Ablation Techniques/methods
- Adult
- Angina Pectoris/etiology
- Arrhythmias, Cardiac/etiology
- Cardiac Imaging Techniques/methods
- Cardiac Pacing, Artificial/methods
- Cardiomyopathy, Hypertrophic/diagnosis
- Cardiomyopathy, Hypertrophic/etiology
- Cardiomyopathy, Hypertrophic/therapy
- Child
- Clinical Laboratory Techniques/methods
- Death, Sudden, Cardiac/prevention & control
- Delivery of Health Care
- Diagnosis, Differential
- Electrocardiography/methods
- Female
- Genetic Counseling/methods
- Genetic Testing/methods
- Heart Failure/etiology
- Heart Valve Diseases/diagnosis
- Heart Valve Diseases/therapy
- Humans
- Medical History Taking/methods
- Pedigree
- Physical Examination/methods
- Preconception Care/methods
- Pregnancy
- Pregnancy Complications, Cardiovascular/diagnosis
- Pregnancy Complications, Cardiovascular/therapy
- Prenatal Care/methods
- Risk Factors
- Sports Medicine
- Syncope/etiology
- Thoracic Surgical Procedures/methods
- Ventricular Outflow Obstruction/etiology
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35
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Nicholls SG, Wilson BJ, Etchegary H, Brehaut JC, Potter BK, Hayeems R, Chakraborty P, Milburn J, Pullman D, Turner L, Carroll JC. Benefits and burdens of newborn screening: public understanding and decision-making. Per Med 2014; 11:593-607. [PMID: 29758802 DOI: 10.2217/pme.14.46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In this article we review the literature regarding the public understanding of the potential benefits and burdens of expanded newborn bloodspot screening. We draw attention to broadened notions of benefit that go beyond early identification of asymptomatic individuals and interventions to reduce morbidity or mortality, and include benefits gained by families through knowledge that may facilitate life choices, as well as gains generated by avoiding diagnostic delays. We also reflect on burdens such as increasing false-positive results and parental anxiety, together with risks of overdiagnosis when the natural history of a condition is poorly understood. We conclude that expanded notions of benefit and burden bring with them implications for parental consent and confidentiality and the secondary use of bloodspots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stuart G Nicholls
- Department of Epidemiology & Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brenda J Wilson
- Department of Epidemiology & Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Holly Etchegary
- Clinical Epidemiology, Memorial University, St John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - Jamie C Brehaut
- Department of Epidemiology & Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Centre for Practice Changing Research, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Beth K Potter
- Department of Epidemiology & Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Robin Hayeems
- Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy Management & Evaluation, University of Toronto, Canada
| | - Pranesh Chakraborty
- Newborn Screening Ontario, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jennifer Milburn
- Better Outcomes Registry & Network (BORN), Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daryl Pullman
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University, St Johns, Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada
| | - Lesley Turner
- Eastern Health, St John's, Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada
| | - June C Carroll
- Department of Family & Community Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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36
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Abi Saad M, Haddad AG, Alam ES, Aoun S, Maatouk P, Ajami N, Khairallah T, Koussa S, Musallam KM, Taher AT. Preventing Thalassemia in Lebanon: Successes and Challenges in a Developing Country. Hemoglobin 2014; 38:308-11. [DOI: 10.3109/03630269.2014.939279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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37
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Tan EC, Lai PS. Molecular diagnosis of neurogenetic disorders involving trinucleotide repeat expansions. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2014; 5:101-9. [PMID: 15723596 DOI: 10.1586/14737159.5.1.101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
There are more than 15 known neurogenetic disorders involving trinucleotide repeat expansion. Expanded repeats range from small expansions of 20-100 copies to larger expansions of up to several thousand units. These dynamic expansions result in variability in age of onset, degree of severity and clinical presentation. Individuals carrying alleles in the intermediate range, known as premutation alleles, are often asymptomatic, but can potentially transmit a further expanded allele to his/her offspring. For autosomal dominant adult-onset disorders, carriers are asymptomatic prior to disease onset. With current molecular tools, it is now possible to determine the presence and number of expanded repeats for accurate diagnosis, presymptomatic testing and carrier status screening. This review examines some of the current approaches for molecular diagnosis and discusses the issues unique to triplet repeat diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ene-Choo Tan
- DSO National Laboratories, Population Genetics Programme, Defence Medical and Environmental Research Institute, 27 Medical Drive, 117510 Singapore.
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38
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Attitudes and opinions of pregnant women who are not offered cystic fibrosis carrier screening. Eur J Hum Genet 2013; 22:859-65. [PMID: 24253861 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2013.267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2013] [Revised: 10/05/2013] [Accepted: 10/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common severe, autosomal recessive disease among Caucasians. A population-based CF carrier screening programme was implemented in Victoria, Australia, in 2006. Carrier screening for CF is currently only offered in the private health system. The aim of this study was to determine the attitudes and opinions of pregnant women in the public health system, towards screening for CF. Pregnant women were recruited in the antenatal clinics of two public hospitals, and invited to participate in the study. Results of this study were compared with previous studies where screening for CF carrier status was offered. Of the participants (n=158), the majority were aged 25-34 years old (66.1%) and were Caucasian (45.8%). Compared with those who were offered screening (reported in previous studies) participants in the current study were younger, had a lower level of education and a lower income. Knowledge was significantly lower in those who were not offered screening compared with those who were offered screening. The majority of participants believe CF carrier screening should be offered in the public health system (80.5%) and almost half would have liked to receive an offer of screening during their current pregnancy (49.7%). In order for the programme to be equitable, screening for CF carrier status needs to be offered in both the public and private health system and ideally should be at no cost to the user.
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Martyn M, Anderson V, Archibald A, Carter R, Cohen J, Delatycki M, Donath S, Emery J, Halliday J, Hill M, Sheffield L, Slater H, Tassone F, Younie S, Metcalfe S. Offering fragile X syndrome carrier screening: a prospective mixed-methods observational study comparing carrier screening of pregnant and non-pregnant women in the general population. BMJ Open 2013; 3:e003660. [PMID: 24022395 PMCID: PMC3773647 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2013-003660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2013] [Revised: 07/30/2013] [Accepted: 07/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the leading cause of inherited intellectual and developmental disability. Policy development relating to carrier screening programmes for FXS requires input from large studies examining not only test uptake but also psychosocial aspects. This study will compare carrier screening in pregnant and non-pregnant populations, examining informed decision-making, psychosocial issues and health economics. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Pregnant and non-pregnant women are being recruited from general practices and obstetric services. Women receive study information either in person or through clinic mail outs. Women are provided pretest counselling by a genetic counsellor and make a decision about testing in their own time. Data are being collected from two questionnaires: one completed at the time of making the decision about testing and the second 1 month later. Additional data are gathered through qualitative interviews conducted at several time points with a subset of participating women, including all women with a positive test result, and with staff from recruiting clinics. A minimum sample size of 500 women/group has been calculated to give us 88% power to detect a 10% difference in test uptake and 87% power to detect a 10% difference in informed choice between the pregnant and non-pregnant groups. Questionnaire data will be analysed using descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression models. Interview data will be thematically analysed. Willingness-to-pay and cost effectiveness analyses will also be performed. Recruitment started in July 2009 and data collection will be completed by December 2013. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval has been granted by the Universities of Melbourne and Western Australia and by recruiting clinics, where required. Results will be reported in peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations and through a website http://www.fragilexscreening.net.au. The results of this study will make a significant contribution to discussions about the wider introduction of population carrier screening for FXS.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Martyn
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Shkedi-Rafid S, Ofer-Bialer G, Meiner V, Calderon-Margalit R. Clinicians' Attitudes toward General Screening of the Ashkenazi-Jewish Population for Prevalent Founder BRCA1/2 and LRRK2 Mutations. Public Health Genomics 2013; 16:174-83. [DOI: 10.1159/000351592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2013] [Accepted: 04/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Belhoul KM, Abdulrahman M, Alraei RF. Hemoglobinopathy Carrier Prevalence in The United Arab Emirates: First Analysis of The Dubai Health Authority Premarital Screening Program Results. Hemoglobin 2013; 37:359-68. [DOI: 10.3109/03630269.2013.791627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Statin treatment of children with familial hypercholesterolemia – Trying to balance incomplete evidence of long-term safety and clinical accountability: Are we approaching a consensus? Atherosclerosis 2013; 226:315-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2012.10.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2012] [Revised: 09/24/2012] [Accepted: 10/07/2012] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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BRCA genetic testing of individuals from families with low prevalence of cancer: experiences of carriers and implications for population screening. Genet Med 2013; 14:688-94. [PMID: 22481128 DOI: 10.1038/gim.2012.31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE BRCA genes are associated with hereditary breast and ovarian cancers. Guidelines worldwide currently recommend BRCA genetic testing in asymptomatic individuals only if they belong to "high-risk" families. However, population screening for BRCA1/2 may be the logical next step in populations with a high prevalence of founder mutations, such as Ashkenazi Jews. This study aimed to explore (i) the impact of a positive BRCA genetic test result on individuals who have neither a personal history nor a familial history of cancer and (ii) their attitudes toward the concept of population screening. METHODS Semistructured in-depth interviews were carried out with 14 Ashkenazi Jewish women who were asymptomatic BRCA carriers and who belonged to families with low prevalence of cancer. RESULTS Three main findings emerged: (i) having no family history of cancer was a source of optimism but also confusion; (ii) engaging in intensified medical surveillance and undergoing preventive procedures was perceived as health-promoting but also tended to induce a sense of physical and psychological vulnerability; and (iii) there was overall support for BRCA population screening, with some reservations. CONCLUSION Women belonging to low-cancer-prevalence families within a "high-risk" ethnic community view BRCA genetic testing positively despite the difficulties entailed, because it allows prevention or early detection of cancer. However, implementing a BRCA population screening program should be carried out with proper pre- and post-testing preparation and support for the individuals undergoing testing.
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Archibald AD, Hickerton CL, Jaques AM, Wake S, Cohen J, Metcalfe SA. "It's about having the choice": stakeholder perceptions of population-based genetic carrier screening for fragile X syndrome. Am J Med Genet A 2012; 161A:48-58. [PMID: 23239566 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.35674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2012] [Accepted: 08/31/2012] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
This project explored, the views of key stakeholders regarding population-based genetic carrier screening for fragile X syndrome (FXS). Interviews and focus groups were conducted with healthcare providers, relatives of individuals with FXS and members of the general population. Data were transcribed verbatim and coded into themes. 188 individuals took part in this study. Perceived benefits of carrier screening included: learning the risk of having a child with FXS; learning the risk of fragile X-associated primary ovarian insufficiency; and the opportunity for carriers to access reproductive options. Concerns included: the emotional impact of screening and receiving a carrier result; the predictive testing nature of the carrier test with respect to fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome; potential confusion created by receiving an intermediate result; and implications of genetic screening for society. Overall, population-based genetic carrier screening was perceived to be acceptable provided it is optional and offered at an appropriate stage of life. With the support of the participants to promote individual choice by offering a population-based carrier screening program for FXS, it is essential to carefully consider how screening might be offered in order to ensure broad accessibility and facilitation of decision-making.
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Ames AG, Jaques A, Ukoumunne OC, Archibald AD, Duncan RE, Emery J, Metcalfe SA. Development of a fragile X syndrome (FXS) knowledge scale: towards a modified multidimensional measure of informed choice for FXS population carrier screening. Health Expect 2012; 18:69-80. [PMID: 23067225 DOI: 10.1111/hex.12009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/06/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genetic carrier screening is increasingly possible for many conditions, but it is important to ensure decisions are informed. The multidimensional measure of informed choice (MMIC) is a quantitative instrument developed to evaluate informed choice in prenatal screening for Down syndrome, measuring knowledge, attitudes and uptake. To apply the MMIC in other screening settings, the knowledge scale must be modified. OBJECTIVE To develop and validate a modified MMIC knowledge scale for use with women undergoing carrier screening for fragile X syndrome (FXS). SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Responses to MMIC items were collected through questionnaires as part of a FXS carrier screening pilot study in a preconception setting in Melbourne, Australia. DESIGN Ten knowledge scale items were developed using a modified Delphi technique. Cronbach's alpha and factor analysis were used to validate the new FXS knowledge scale. We summarized the knowledge, attitudes and informed choice status based on the modified MMIC. RESULTS Two hundred and eighty-five women were recruited, 241 eligible questionnaires were complete for analysis. The FXS knowledge scale items measured one salient construct and were internally consistent (alpha = 0.70). 71% (172/241) of participants were classified as having good knowledge, 70% (169/241) had positive attitudes and 27% (65/241) made an informed choice to accept or decline screening. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS We present the development of a knowledge scale as part of a MMIC to evaluate informed choice in population carrier screening for FXS. This can be used as a template by other researchers to develop knowledge scales for other conditions for use in the MMIC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice G Ames
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia; Genetics Education and Health Research, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Vic., Australia
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Molecular epidemiology of citrullinemia type I in a risk region of Argentina: a first step to preconception heterozygote detection. JIMD Rep 2012. [PMID: 23430935 DOI: 10.1007/8904_2012_127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] Open
Abstract
Classical citrullinemia type I (CTLN1) is an autosomal recessive disorder encoded by the ASS1 gene, which codes for argininosuccinate synthetase (ASS), the rate-limiting enzyme in the urea cycle. Previously, we identified the mutation p.G390R in patients with CTLN1 in the San Luis Province of Argentina. Here, we report the results of p.G390R analysis in a larger number of probands, relatives of involved families and additionally, a population study to identify carriers. Altogether, we analyzed 420 alleles, belonging to 12 probands, 26 relatives, and 172 healthy volunteers. All the probands were homozygous for the mutation, and 21 of 26 relatives were carriers. The occurrence of the disease in descendants of couples at risk was 57% showing a preferential transmission of the mutant allele compared to the normal allele. The carrier frequency in the general San Luis Province population was 4.1%, suggesting the incidence of CTLN1 to be 1:2,427, which is approximately 20 times higher than for the general population. This work suggests that there should be an increased awareness of preconceptual screening of CTNL1 among individuals/couples who are at risk in the San Luis Province in order to better inform them of their reproductive options.Cascade/family and population molecular screening for carrier identification were performed in an Argentinean province with high incidence of CTLN1, a first step to preconceptional screening.
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Metcalfe SA. Carrier screening in preconception consultation in primary care. J Community Genet 2011; 3:193-203. [PMID: 22183783 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-011-0071-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2011] [Accepted: 11/08/2011] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Discussing carrier screening during preconception consultation in primary care has a number of advantages in terms of promoting autonomy and enabling the greatest range of reproductive choices. For those with a family history of an inherited condition, this ought to be a routine discussion; however, this can be expanded to include the wider population, especially for those conditions for which carrier frequencies are considered relatively common. There is published literature from around the world regarding experiences with carrier screening in primary care for cystic fibrosis, haemoglobinopathies, fragile X syndrome, Tay-Sachs disease and spinal muscular atrophy, although many of these have tended to focus on consultations during rather than before pregnancy. Overall, these studies reveal that population carrier screening is well received by the participants with apparent minimal psychosocial harms; however, challenges exist in terms of approaches to ensure couples receive adequate information to make personally relevant decisions and for ongoing health professional engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia A Metcalfe
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital and Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia,
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Archibald AD, McClaren BJ. Perceived relevance of genetic carrier screening: observations of the role of health-related life experiences and stage of life in decision making. J Community Genet 2011; 3:47-54. [PMID: 22109909 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-011-0067-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2011] [Accepted: 10/05/2011] [Indexed: 10/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Alison D Archibald
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,
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Hill M, Compton C, Lewis C, Skirton H, Chitty LS. Determination of foetal sex in pregnancies at risk of haemophilia: a qualitative study exploring the clinical practices and attitudes of health professionals in the United Kingdom. Haemophilia 2011; 18:575-83. [PMID: 21951674 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2516.2011.02653.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In pregnancies at risk of haemophilia, foetal sex determination is used to plan perinatal management and to guide the offer of invasive testing in pregnancies with a male foetus. Traditionally ultrasound from 12 weeks gestation has been used, but recently options for early foetal sex determination have increased following the introduction of non-invasive prenatal diagnosis (NIPD) using cell free foetal DNA in maternal plasma. This study was conducted to identify clinical practices and examine health professional attitudes regarding NIPD for foetal sex determination. A qualitative approach using one-to-one semi structured interviews was used to enable an in-depth exploration of current practice, introduction and use of NIPD and benefits and disadvantages of offering NIPD. Interviews were conducted with consultant haematologists (N = 7), specialist haemophilia nurses (N = 7), genetic counsellors (N = 6), consultants in clinical genetics (N = 5), specialist midwives (N = 2) and obstetricians (N = 5) from 24 services across the United Kingdom (UK). Key differences in how NIPD for foetal sexing is utilized throughout the UK were identified. Some services routinely offered NIPD to all carriers of haemophilia or to all carriers of severe haemophilia, others discussed the value of NIPD with all or primarily offered NIPD as a first step to invasive testing. This study informs our understanding of how NIPD is being utilized and provides unique insights into current practice. The identification of variation between services in how prenatal testing options are offered has implications for future policy and guidelines for prenatal care.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Hill
- Clinical and Molecular Genetics, Institute of Child Health and Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK.
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Lieberman S, Zuckerman S, Levy-Lahad E, Altarescu G. Conflicts regarding genetic counseling for fragile X syndrome screening: a survey of clinical geneticists and genetic counselors in Israel. Am J Med Genet A 2011; 155A:2154-60. [PMID: 21834046 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.34155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2010] [Accepted: 05/01/2011] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Although fragile X screening has been offered in Israel since 1994, issues related to potential neurological and gynecological symptoms in carriers make counseling for fragile X different from recessive disorders. We evaluated the attitudes of clinical geneticists and genetic counselors regarding genetic counseling given to the women undergoing screening. We performed a self-administered questionnaire including 13 study questions mailed to all clinical geneticists and genetic counselors in Israel. The questions were related to counseling for women pre- and post-screening regarding themselves and the affected fetuses (including the risk for premature ovarian insufficiency; FXPOI and fragile X-associated tremor ataxia syndrome; FXTAS). Out of a total of 80 clinical geneticists and genetic counselors, 34 responded with no additional responses on e-mail re-call. There was no clear consensus for 11/13 (85%) presented questions. The most striking differences in opinion were observed for issues regarding FXTAS risk in pre-screening counseling sessions (P < 0.05). This study demonstrates that, there is no consensus on critical variables implying risk for fetus and mother and that counseling practices are dissimilar even in this small cohort of experts. We demonstrated a conflict between the detailed amount of information, which should be given prior to the test in order to allow informed decisions and the overload of information, which may cause confusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sari Lieberman
- Medical Genetics Institute, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
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