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Ferrari A, Pennestrì F, Bonciani M, Banfi G, Vainieri M, Tomaiuolo R. The role of patient-reported experiences in disclosing genetic prenatal testing: Findings from a large-scale survey on pregnant women. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol X 2024; 23:100327. [PMID: 39130210 PMCID: PMC11315116 DOI: 10.1016/j.eurox.2024.100327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Pregnant women can choose from different prenatal genetic tests throughout their maternity journey. We aim to investigate the clinical, societal, and economic determinants influencing the selection of different options (non-invasive, invasive, or both). Methods A systematic survey focusing on maternity pathways was launched by the Region of Tuscany, Italy, to collect data on pregnant women's experience, outcomes and satisfaction levels. Drawing from this survey, we retrospectively analyzed data on women who filled out the second-trimester questionnaire between March 2019 and February 2023 (n = 27,337), providing complete data on relevant variables. Logistic regression models were applied to identify the factors contributing to a higher likelihood of opting for non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) and invasive testing. Results Among the participants, 42.7 % chose only NIPT, 3.8 % opted for invasive tests exclusively, 1.3 % underwent both tests, and 52.2 % did not pursue any genetic testing. NIPT was more often chosen by older, Italian, highly educated, nulliparous women, who perceived better health, were employed (versus unemployed), had higher economic status, planned pregnancy, received hospital-based care (versus counseling center), under gynecologist supervision (versus midwife), not opted for combined testing and received pregnancy vaccinations. Conversely, invasive testing was more prevalent among older women but less common among those who were nulliparous, had Italian nationality, and had a perceived better health status. This group also tended to experience unplanned and high-risk pregnancy, did not take folate during pregnancy, received public hospital-based assistance, less frequently chose combined tests or NIPT, and had frequent delays in examinations. Conclusions Various factors beyond clinical considerations influence the selection of a prenatal test. Therefore, NIPT pathways should include balanced, high-quality information about benefits and limitations, ensuring laboratory specialists' active and integrated involvement in decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amerigo Ferrari
- Institute of Management, MeS (Management and Health) Laboratory, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Manila Bonciani
- Institute of Management, MeS (Management and Health) Laboratory, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Pisa, Italy
- Meyer Center for Health and Happiness, A. Meyer Children's Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Banfi
- IRCCS Ospedale Galeazzi Sant’Ambrogio, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Milena Vainieri
- Institute of Management, MeS (Management and Health) Laboratory, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - Rossella Tomaiuolo
- IRCCS Ospedale Galeazzi Sant’Ambrogio, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
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Lau SA, Fawaz RI, Rigobello R, Bawazeer S, Alajaji NM, Faqeih E, Li Y, Feng Y, Xia F, Eng CM, Abedalthagafi M. CffDNA screening for Niemann-pick disease, type C1: a case series. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1390693. [PMID: 39161410 PMCID: PMC11330825 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1390693] [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: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) screening is a valuable tool in clinical practice for detecting chromosomal abnormalities and autosomal dominant (AD) conditions. This study introduces a novel proof-of-concept assay designed for autosomal recessive (AR) cffDNA screening, focusing on cases involving the NPC1 gene. We aim to illustrate the significant benefits of AR cffDNA screening in managing high-risk pregnancies, specifically where biallelic pathogenic variants in NPC1 cause Niemann-Pick disease, type C1 (NPC), a disorder marked by progressive neurodegeneration. Three participants for this study were recruited and gave consent to a hospital in Saudi Arabia. These participants were either carriers of NPC or had a first- or second-degree relative affected by the disorder. No specific criteria were set for the age of the participants. All were between 15 and 18 weeks of gestation. Using amplicon-based next-generation sequencing (NGS), we analyzed the zygosity and variants in cffDNA extracted from maternal peripheral blood. After amplicon NGS, analysis was completed by a custom data analysis pipeline that included in-house-built data processing scripts and commonly used software packages. Importantly, the results were not disclosed to the patients. Our findings showed that in all three cases, AR cffDNA screening results were consistent with standard invasive diagnostic testing. This screening method offers several advantages: it provides critical information to families earlier in the pregnancy compared to invasive diagnostic tests, and it helps to alleviate parental anxiety. Moreover, this non-invasive method can determine pregnancy status in the first trimester for known familial variants. Future research may extend this approach to screen for known disease-causing variants in common AR conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Shahad Bawazeer
- Department of Medical Genetics, Children's Specialized Hospital, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nouf M. Alajaji
- Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Women's Specialized Hospital, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eissa Faqeih
- Department of Medical Genetics, Children's Specialized Hospital, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yanchun Li
- Baylor Genetics, Houston, TX, United States
| | | | - Fan Xia
- Baylor Genetics, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Christine M. Eng
- Baylor Genetics, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Malak Abedalthagafi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- King Salman Center for Disability Research, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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3
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Tramontano AL, Marano I, Orlandi G, Angelino A, Rivieccio M, Fulgione C, Maruotti GM, Saccone G, De Vita G, Guida M, Sarno L. Maternal Reassurance, Satisfaction, and Anxiety after First-Trimester Screening for Aneuploidies: Comparison between Contingent Screening and Universal Cell-Free DNA Testing. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:1198. [PMID: 38893724 PMCID: PMC11172334 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14111198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aims to evaluate maternal reassurance, satisfaction, and anxiety after two different strategies for the first-trimester screening for aneuploidies. METHODS Patients between 11 + 3 and 13 + 6 weeks of gestation attending the first-trimester screening at Department of Mother and Child, University Hospital Federico II, Naples, Italy have been recruited and randomly allocated to contingent screening or universal cell-free fetal DNA testing (cffDNA). Questionnaires to measure reassurance, satisfaction, and anxiety have been filled twice: (Q1) after randomization and (Q2) after receiving results. Anxiety was measured by an Italian-version short form of the state scale of the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI); child-related anxiety was measured by the 11-item Pregnancy-Related Anxiety Questionnaire-Revised Regardless of Parity (PRAQ-R2 scale); fear of bearing a physically or mentally handicapped child was measured considering only four items (item 4, 9, 10, and 11) of the PRAQ-R2 scale. RESULTS 431 patients were recruited: 205 (49%) were randomized in the contingent screening arm, 226 (51%) in the cfDNA arm. Maternal reassurance, satisfaction, and anxiety were not different in the two groups. CONCLUSION A contingent screening for aneuploidies in the first trimester seems able to ensure the same maternal reassurance and satisfaction as a cfDNA analysis in the low-risk population and to not affect maternal anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Luna Tramontano
- Mother and Child Department, University Hospital Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.L.T.); (I.M.)
| | - Ilaria Marano
- Mother and Child Department, University Hospital Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.L.T.); (I.M.)
| | - Giuliana Orlandi
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Science and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (G.O.); (C.F.); (G.S.)
| | - Antonio Angelino
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy (G.M.M.)
| | - Maria Rivieccio
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotecnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.R.); (G.D.V.)
| | - Caterina Fulgione
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Science and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (G.O.); (C.F.); (G.S.)
| | | | - Gabriele Saccone
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Science and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (G.O.); (C.F.); (G.S.)
| | - Gabriella De Vita
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotecnology, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.R.); (G.D.V.)
| | - Maurizio Guida
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Science and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (G.O.); (C.F.); (G.S.)
| | - Laura Sarno
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Science and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (G.O.); (C.F.); (G.S.)
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Bakkeren IM, Henneman L, van Vliet-Lachotzki EH, Martin L, Gitsels-van der Wal JT, Polak MG, Bekker MN, Galjaard RJH. Psychological impact of additional findings detected by genome-wide Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT): TRIDENT-2 study. Eur J Hum Genet 2024; 32:302-308. [PMID: 38057584 PMCID: PMC10923886 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-023-01504-8] [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: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In the Netherlands, genome-wide non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) is offered to all pregnant women as part of the nationwide TRIDENT-2 study. Findings other than trisomy 21, 18, or 13, which are called "additional findings", are reported only on request of the pregnant woman. This study examined: (1) women's pre-test perceptions and reasons to opt for additional findings and (2) women's experiences with- and the psychological impact of being informed about an additional finding. A questionnaire, consisting of the anxiety measure State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), distress measure Impact of Event Scale (IES) and questions developed specifically for this study, was retrospectively administered to 402 women who received an additional finding. A total of 227 (56.5%) women completed the questionnaire. Most (60.2%) chose to know additional findings because they wanted as much information as possible about the health of their fetus. Almost all (92%) stated that receiving the additional finding was unexpected, a shock, and/or they were in disbelief, for 85% it caused a lot of worry. Post-test, high anxiety (STAI) levels were reported in 15.5% of women, and 7.5% reported severe distress (IES). Women who gave birth to an affected child (n = 10) experienced most psychological impact (STAI and IES). Eighty-six percent of women with a fetal aberration would opt for additional findings again, compared to 49.2% of women whose result was confined to the placenta. Pre-test counseling should focus on explaining the different results NIPT can generate. Post-test counseling should focus on guiding pregnant women through this uncertain and anxious time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris M Bakkeren
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Lidewij Henneman
- Department of Human Genetics and Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Linda Martin
- Department of Midwifery Science, AVAG, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Janneke T Gitsels-van der Wal
- Department of Midwifery Science, AVAG, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam UMC, location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marike G Polak
- Department of Psychology, Education & Child Studies (DPECS), Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Mireille N Bekker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Utrecht University Medical Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Robert-Jan H Galjaard
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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Griffin E, Hooker G, Grace M, Kaphingst K, Velez Edwards D, Zhao Z, Slamon J. What knowledge is required for an informed choice related to non-invasive prenatal screening? J Genet Couns 2023. [PMID: 36872475 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
Non-invasive prenatal screening (NIPS) using cell-free DNA is a screening test for fetal aneuploidy offered by a variety of prenatal healthcare providers. Guidelines for genetic screening consistently recommend that providers facilitate informed choices, which have been associated with better psychological and clinical outcomes than uninformed choices. The multidimensional measure of informed choice (MMIC) is a widely used and theory-based measure that combines knowledge, values, and behavior to classify decisions as either informed or uniformed. We implemented a previously validated version of the MMIC for women offered NIPS to describe the choices made by women receiving prenatal care at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center. The survey included the Ottawa Decisional Conflict scale, an outcome measure used for validation of choice categorization. We found that most women (87%) made an informed choice about NIPS. Of the women categorized as uninformed, 67% had insufficient knowledge, and 33% had an attitude discordant with their decision. The vast majority of respondents (92.5%) underwent NIPS and had a positive attitude toward screening (94.3%). Ethnicity (p = 0.04) and education (p = 0.01) were found to be significantly associated with informed choice. Decisional conflict was extremely low among all participants, with only 5.6% of all participants demonstrating any form of decisional conflict, and all being categorized as having made an informed choice. This study suggests that pre-test counseling by a genetic counselor results in high rates of informed choice and low-decisional conflict amongst women offered NIPS by genetic counselors, though more research is required to determine if rates of informed choice remain high when NIPS is offered by other prenatal providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Griffin
- Northern Arizona Healthcare, Sedona, Arizona, USA
| | - Gillian Hooker
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Tennessee, Nashville, USA.,Concert Genetics, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Matthew Grace
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Tennessee, Nashville, USA
| | - Kimberly Kaphingst
- Department of Communication, University of Utah, Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
| | - Digna Velez Edwards
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Tennessee, Nashville, USA
| | - Zhiguo Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Tennessee, Nashville, USA
| | - Jill Slamon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Tennessee, Nashville, USA
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Bowman-Smart H, Gyngell C, Mand C, Amor DJ, Delatycki MB, Savulescu J. Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing for "Non-Medical" Traits: Ensuring Consistency in Ethical Decision-Making. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOETHICS : AJOB 2023; 23:3-20. [PMID: 34846986 PMCID: PMC7614328 DOI: 10.1080/15265161.2021.1996659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
The scope of noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) could expand in the future to include detailed analysis of the fetal genome. This will allow for the testing for virtually any trait with a genetic contribution, including "non-medical" traits. Here we discuss the potential use of NIPT for these traits. We outline a scenario which highlights possible inconsistencies with ethical decision-making. We then discuss the case against permitting these uses. The objections include practical problems; increasing inequities; increasing the burden of choice; negative impacts on the child, family, and society; and issues with implementation. We then outline the case for permitting the use of NIPT for these traits. These include arguments for reproductive liberty and autonomy; questioning the labeling of traits as "non-medical"; and the principle of procreative beneficence. This summary of the case for and against can serve as a basis for the development of a consistent and coherent ethical framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilary Bowman-Smart
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
- Corresponding author: Hilary Bowman-Smart Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, 50 Flemington Rd, Parkville Victoria Australia 3052, , (03) 8341 6200
| | - Christopher Gyngell
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
| | - Cara Mand
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
| | - David J. Amor
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
- Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Parkville, Australia
| | - Martin B. Delatycki
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
- Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Parkville, Australia
| | - Julian Savulescu
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, Australia
- Uehiro Centre for Practical Ethics, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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7
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Howell S, Davis SM, Thompson T, Brown M, Tanda T, Kowal K, Alston A, Ross J, Tartaglia NR. Noninvasive prenatal screening (NIPS) results for participants of the eXtraordinarY babies study: Screening, counseling, diagnosis, and discordance. J Genet Couns 2023; 32:250-259. [PMID: 36204975 PMCID: PMC11004509 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Sex chromosome aneuploidies (SCAs), including 47,XXY, 47,XXX, 47,XYY, and supernumerary variants, occur collectively in approximately one of 500 live births. Clinical phenotypes are highly variable resulting in previous ascertainment rates estimated to be only 10%-25% during a lifetime. Historically, prenatal SCA diagnoses were incidental findings, accounting for ≤10% of cases, with the majority of diagnoses occurring postnatally during evaluations for neurodevelopmental, medical, or infertility concerns. The initiation of noninvasive prenatal screening (NIPS) in 2012 and adoption into standardized obstetric care provides a unique opportunity to significantly increase prenatal ascertainment of SCAs. However, the impact NIPS has had on ascertainment of SCAs is understudied, particularly for those who may defer diagnostic testing until after birth. This study evaluates the timing of diagnostic testing following positive NIPS in 152 infants with SCAs and potential factors influencing this decision. Eighty-seven (57%) elected to defer diagnostic testing after a positive NIPS until birth, and 8% (7/87) of those confirmed after birth were found to have discordant results on postnatal diagnostic testing, most of which would have influenced genetic counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Howell
- Developmental Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- eXtraordinarY Kids Clinic and Research Program, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Shanlee M. Davis
- eXtraordinarY Kids Clinic and Research Program, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Talia Thompson
- Developmental Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- eXtraordinarY Kids Clinic and Research Program, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Mariah Brown
- eXtraordinarY Kids Clinic and Research Program, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Tanea Tanda
- Developmental Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- eXtraordinarY Kids Clinic and Research Program, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Karen Kowal
- Department of Pediatrics, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Nemours DuPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, Delaware, USA
| | - Amanda Alston
- Department of Pediatrics, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Nemours DuPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, Delaware, USA
| | - Judith Ross
- Department of Pediatrics, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Nemours DuPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, Delaware, USA
| | - Nicole R. Tartaglia
- Developmental Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- eXtraordinarY Kids Clinic and Research Program, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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8
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Experiences of pregnant women with genome-wide non-invasive prenatal testing in a national screening program. Eur J Hum Genet 2022; 31:555-561. [PMID: 36481825 PMCID: PMC10172316 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-022-01248-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractPregnant women’s perspectives should be included in the dialogue surrounding the expanding offers of non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), especially now that technological possibilities are rapidly increasing. This study evaluated women’s experiences with the offer of genome-wide (GW) first-tier NIPT in a national screening program. A nationwide pre-and post-test questionnaire was completed by 473 pregnant women choosing between targeted NIPT (trisomies 21, 18 and 13 only) and GW-NIPT (also other findings) within the Dutch TRIDENT-2 study. Measures included satisfaction, reasons for or against choosing GW-NIPT, anxiety, and opinion on the future scope of NIPT. Most respondents (90.4%) were glad to have been offered the choice between GW-NIPT and targeted NIPT; 76.5% chose GW-NIPT. Main reasons to choose GW-NIPT were ‘wanting as much information as possible regarding the child’s health’ (38.6%) and ‘to be prepared for everything’ (23.8%). Main reasons to choose targeted NIPT were ‘avoiding uncertain results/outcomes’ (33.7%) and ‘not wanting to unnecessarily worry’ (32.6%). Nearly all respondents received a low-risk NIPT result (98.7%). No differences were found in anxiety between women choosing GW-NIPT and targeted NIPT. Most respondents were favorable toward future prenatal screening for a range of conditions, including life-threatening disorders, mental disabilities, disorders treatable in pregnancy and severe physical disabilities, regardless of their choice for GW-NIPT or targeted NIPT. In conclusion, women who chose first-tier NIPT were satisfied with the choice between GW-NIPT and targeted NIPT, and most women were favorable toward a broader future screening offer. Our results contribute to the debate concerning the expansion of NIPT.
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Lannoo L, van Straaten K, Breckpot J, Brison N, De Catte L, Dimitriadou E, Legius E, Peeters H, Parijs I, Tsuiko O, Vancoillie L, Vermeesch JR, Van Buggenhout G, Van Den Bogaert K, Van Calsteren K, Devriendt K. Rare autosomal trisomies detected by non-invasive prenatal testing: an overview of current knowledge. Eur J Hum Genet 2022; 30:1323-1330. [PMID: 35896702 PMCID: PMC9712527 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-022-01147-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-invasive prenatal testing has been introduced for the detection of Trisomy 13, 18, and 21. Using genome-wide screening also other "rare" autosomal trisomies (RATs) can be detected with a frequency about half the frequency of the common trisomies in the large population-based studies. Large prospective studies and clear clinical guidelines are lacking to provide adequate counseling and management to those who are confronted with a RAT as a healthcare professional or patient. In this review we reviewed the current knowledge of the most common RATs. We compiled clinical relevant parameters such as incidence, meiotic or mitotic origin, the risk of fetal (mosaic) aneuploidy, clinical manifestations of fetal mosaicism for a RAT, the effect of confined placental mosaicism on placental function and the risk of uniparental disomy (UPD). Finally, we identified gaps in the knowledge on RATs and highlight areas of future research. This overview may serve as a first guide for prenatal management for each of these RATs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lore Lannoo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division Woman and Child, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Jeroen Breckpot
- Department of Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nathalie Brison
- Department of Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Luc De Catte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division Woman and Child, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Eric Legius
- Department of Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Hilde Peeters
- Department of Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ilse Parijs
- Department of Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Olga Tsuiko
- Department of Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Leen Vancoillie
- Department of Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | | | | | - Kristel Van Calsteren
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division Woman and Child, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Koenraad Devriendt
- Department of Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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10
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Popa ZL, Margan MM, Petre I, Bernad E, Stelea L, Chiriac VD, Craina M, Ciuca IM, Bina AM. A Cross-Sectional Study of the Marital Attitudes of Pregnant Women at Risk for Cystic Fibrosis and Psychological Impact of Prenatal Screening. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:8698. [PMID: 35886548 PMCID: PMC9317754 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19148698] [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: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is one of the most frequent genetic disorders in those with Northern European ancestry. Prenatal testing for cystic fibrosis may be used to plan and prepare for the birth of a child with the disease or to determine whether to terminate the pregnancy. The accessibility of prenatal detection for women with a high genetic risk of delivering a child with cystic fibrosis is determined by CF carriers and those affected by the disease. Moreover, prenatal testing for CF is mainly dependent on invasive diagnostic tests that can influence the mental health of the pregnant woman, and it is assumed that the birth of a CF child will have a serious influence on the couple's subsequent family planning and marital behavior. The purpose of this research was to examine the marital attitudes of women at risk for cystic fibrosis and the psychological effect of screening for CF among pregnant women. The study followed a cross-sectional design with five questionnaires comprising Prenatal Attachment Interview (PAI), Maternal Antenatal Attachment Scale (MAAS), Pregnancy-Related Anxiety Questionnaire (PRAQ-R2), the Prenatal Psychosocial Profile (PPP), and the Marital Intimacy Questionnaire (MIQ). A total of 84 pregnant women were included in the "carriers" group for CFTR and 91 in the "non-carrier" group. CFTR-carrier mothers were likely to be more affectionate to the fetus, with better maternal-fetal quality and intensity of attachment. The same group of pregnant women was less scared of giving birth or worried about bearing a physically or mentally handicapped child compared to women who were expecting the prenatal diagnosis test for being at risk of delivering a newborn with malformations. CFTR-carrier pregnant women did not score significantly different results in the Prenatal Psychosocial Profile regarding stress levels, social support, and self-esteem. It was also found that intimacy and consensus problems inside the marriage were significantly more often experienced by CFTR carriers. Based on the current findings, it is likely that CFTR-carrier mothers have a better perception of the possible pregnancy outcomes by knowing their abnormal gene carrier status. Therefore, the psychological impact of invasive diagnostic tests is lower in this category compared with those who are unaware of the possible pregnancy outcomes. However, we promote a future analysis for pregnant women with moderate risk of giving birth to a child with single-gene mutations such as cystic fibrosis or other congenital malformations that undergo noninvasive prenatal diagnosis tests, as they become more accurate and might cause lower pre-diagnosis stress levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoran Laurentiu Popa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (Z.L.P.); (I.P.); (E.B.); (L.S.); (V.D.C.); (M.C.)
- Centre for Translational Research and Systems Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Madalin-Marius Margan
- Department of Microscopic Morphology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Izabella Petre
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (Z.L.P.); (I.P.); (E.B.); (L.S.); (V.D.C.); (M.C.)
| | - Elena Bernad
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (Z.L.P.); (I.P.); (E.B.); (L.S.); (V.D.C.); (M.C.)
| | - Lavinia Stelea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (Z.L.P.); (I.P.); (E.B.); (L.S.); (V.D.C.); (M.C.)
| | - Veronica Daniela Chiriac
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (Z.L.P.); (I.P.); (E.B.); (L.S.); (V.D.C.); (M.C.)
| | - Marius Craina
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (Z.L.P.); (I.P.); (E.B.); (L.S.); (V.D.C.); (M.C.)
| | - Ioana Mihaela Ciuca
- Department of Pediatrics, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Anca Mihaela Bina
- Centre for Translational Research and Systems Medicine, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Department III Functional Sciences, Discipline Pathophysiology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
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11
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Women’s perspectives and attitudes towards the utility of angiogenic biomarkers in preeclampsia. Pregnancy Hypertens 2022; 28:109-113. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preghy.2022.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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12
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Bermejo-Franco A, Sánchez-Sánchez JL, Gaviña-Barroso MI, Atienza-Carbonell B, Balanzá-Martínez V, Clemente-Suárez VJ. Gender Differences in Psychological Stress Factors of Physical Therapy Degree Students in the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19020810. [PMID: 35055632 PMCID: PMC8776211 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19020810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
(1) Background: The aim of the study was to investigate how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the mental health and quality of life of male and female physical therapy students at the European University of Madrid. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted including a range of tests capturing different domains: 36-item Short Form Health Survey, six-item state version of the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory, Acceptance and Action Questionnaire, Three Items Loneliness Scale, four-item version of the Perceived Stress Scale, Beck Depression Inventory revised version, and Sleep Quality Numeric Rating Scale. (3) Results: A total of 151 students completed the study, consisting of 78 females and 73 males. Gender differences were observed on most of the domains evaluated. Female participants showed worse levels of general health perception, quality of life, depression symptoms, anxiety, stress, experiential avoidance and psychological inflexibility, sleep quality and loneliness compared to male physical therapy students. (4) Conclusions: The results of this study support the need of psychological interventions as preventive programs in situations such as COVID-19 pandemic. The aims of this study comprise of improving knowledge, awareness, and self-coping strategies or other psychological domains oriented to mitigate the effects of COVID-19 on mental health and health-related quality of life in university students, especially among female ones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Bermejo-Franco
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Villaviciosa de Odón, 28670 Madrid, Spain; (A.B.-F.); (M.I.G.-B.); (V.J.C.-S.)
| | - Juan Luis Sánchez-Sánchez
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Villaviciosa de Odón, 28670 Madrid, Spain; (A.B.-F.); (M.I.G.-B.); (V.J.C.-S.)
- Correspondence:
| | - María Isabel Gaviña-Barroso
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Villaviciosa de Odón, 28670 Madrid, Spain; (A.B.-F.); (M.I.G.-B.); (V.J.C.-S.)
| | | | - Vicent Balanzá-Martínez
- Teaching Unit of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), 28007 Madrid, Spain
| | - Vicente Javier Clemente-Suárez
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Villaviciosa de Odón, 28670 Madrid, Spain; (A.B.-F.); (M.I.G.-B.); (V.J.C.-S.)
- Grupo de Investigación en Cultura, Educación y Sociedad, Universidad de la Costa, Barranquilla 080002, Colombia
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13
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Comparing Germany and Israel regarding debates on policy-making at the beginning of life: PGD, NIPT and their paths of routinization. Ethik Med 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s00481-021-00652-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Definition
The routinization of prenatal diagnosis is the source of bioethical and policy debates regarding choice, autonomy, access, and protection. To understand these debates in the context of cultural diversity and moral pluralism, we compare Israel and Germany, focusing on two recent repro-genetic “hot spots” of such policy-making at the beginning of life: pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) and non-invasive prenatal genetic testing (NIPT), two cutting-edge repro-genetic technologies that are regulated and viewed very differently in Germany and Israel, reflecting different medicolegal policies as well as public and bioethical considerations.
Arguments
First, we compare policy-making in the context of PGD for HLA (human leukocyte antigen) typing, used to create sibling donors, approved in Israel under specific conditions while prohibited in Germany. Second, we compare policy-making in the context of NIPT, which came under fire in Germany, while in Israel there has been little public debate about it.
Conclusion
Both countries justify their contrasting policies as reflecting a concern for the well-being and care of the embryo/child, thus highlighting different concepts of embryo/child protection, (relational) autonomy, family relations, and the impact of religion and history on the promotion/protection of life. We use the juxtaposition of PGD and NIPT to highlight some inconsistencies in policies concerning the protection of extra- and intra-corporeal embryos. We conclude by drawing on the comparison to show how national variations exist alongside co-evolution.
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Schneider L, Tripathi A. Progress and Challenges in Laboratory-Based Diagnostic and Screening Approaches for Aneuploidy Detection during Pregnancy. SLAS Technol 2021; 26:425-440. [PMID: 34148381 DOI: 10.1177/24726303211021787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Aneuploidy is caused by problems during cellular division and segregation errors during meiosis that lead to an abnormal number of chromosomes and initiate significant genetic abnormalities during pregnancy or the loss of a fetus due to miscarriage. Screening and diagnostic technologies have been developed to detect this genetic condition and provide parents with critical information about their unborn child. In this review, we highlight the complexities of aneuploidy as a disease as well as multiple technological advancements in testing that help to identify aneuploidy at various time points throughout pregnancy. We focus on aneuploidy diagnosis during preimplantation genetic testing that is performed during in vitro fertilization as well as prenatal screening and diagnosis during pregnancy. This review focuses on DNA-based analysis and laboratory techniques for aneuploidy detection through reviewing molecular- and engineering-based technical advancements. We also present key challenges in aneuploidy detection during pregnancy, including sample collection, mosaic embryos, economic factors, and the social implications of this testing. The goal of this review is to synthesize broad information about aneuploidy screening and diagnostic sample collection and analysis during pregnancy and discuss major challenges the field is still facing despite decades of advancements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Schneider
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Anubhav Tripathi
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
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15
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Non invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) for common aneuploidies and beyond. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2021; 258:424-429. [PMID: 33550217 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2021.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Non invasive prenatal Testing (NIPT) is changing the practice of prenatal diagnosis worldwide. It provides high sensitivity and specificity in screening for common aneuploidies. As a result, it has reduced the number of invasive procedures, thereby reducing their associated risk of pregnancy miscarriage. NIPT is based on the detection and analysis of cell free fetal DNA (cffDNA) that is obtained from a maternal peripheral blood sample. Advanced laboratory detection and purification technology has improved the performance of NIPT and allowed the introduction of new applications in recent years. The introduction of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) into clinical practice has rendered NIPT to have high sensitivity in the screening of aneuploidy. It has also allowed detecting and investigating the fetal genome from maternal plasma. Fetal Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) provides non invasive prenatal diagnosis of inherited monogenic disorders and can also offer a diagnosis of an underlying cause of fetal anomalies that have a normal karyotype. The following will review the current and potential future applications of NIPT and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the various NIPT techniques. The role of public healthcare system plays in the provision of the test, and the psychological impact of NIPT on the end-users will also be highlighted.
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16
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Wong LP, Hung CC, Alias H, Lee TSH. Anxiety symptoms and preventive measures during the COVID-19 outbreak in Taiwan. BMC Psychiatry 2020; 20:376. [PMID: 32677926 PMCID: PMC7364127 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-020-02786-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is hypothesized that anxiety and behavioral responses are intense at the beginning of an epidemic. The objective of this study was to investigate anxiety symptoms and use of preventive measures against COVID-19. The study also compared the association between preventive measures and anxiety symptoms during the week immediately preceding the study and those symptoms and measures at the beginning of the outbreak. METHODS A cross-sectional population survey using an online questionnaire commenced on 14 February 2020. The study participants were residents of Taiwan ages 20 to 70 years. The 6-item state version of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-6) was used to assess anxiety symptoms. The questions about preventive measures asked participants about their personal protection, cough etiquette, contact precautions, voluntary quarantine, and prompt reporting. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the factors influencing an increase in the preventive measures scores. RESULTS Of a total of 3555 completed responses, a total of 52.1% (95% confidence interval [CI] 50.4-53.7) of the respondents reported moderate to severe levels of anxiety symptoms in the past week, whereas 48.8% (95%CI 47.2-50.5) reported moderate to severe anxiety symptoms at the beginning of the outbreak. With a higher score indicating greater anxiety, the median scores for anxiety symptoms in the past week and at the beginning of the outbreak were 46.7 (IQR [interquartile range] 36.7-53.3) and 43.3 (IQR 36.7-53.3), respectively. The median scores for the preventive measures taken in the past week and at the beginning of the outbreak were 26.0 (IQR 21.0-30.0) and 24.0 (IQR 19.0-28.0), respectively, out of a maximum score of 36. In the multivariable analysis, an increased anxiety symptom score from the beginning of the outbreak to the past week (adjusted OR = 7.38, 95%CI 6.28-8.66) was a strongly significant determinant of an increased preventive measures score in the past week compared with the score at the beginning of the outbreak. CONCLUSIONS Anxiety and preventive measures scores were high and increased with the epidemic rate. Higher anxiety was associated with an increased use of preventive measures against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Ping Wong
- Centre for Epidemiology and Evidence-Based Practice, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Chia-Chun Hung
- grid.260770.40000 0001 0425 5914Institute of Brain Science, National Yang Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan ,grid.454740.6Bali Psychiatric Center, Ministry of Health and Welfare, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Haridah Alias
- grid.10347.310000 0001 2308 5949Centre for Epidemiology and Evidence-Based Practice, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Tony Szu-Hsien Lee
- Department of Health Promotion and Health Education, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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17
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Vali S, Mukhtar S, Nandi A, Wilson K, Oakley L, El-Toukhy T, Oteng-Ntim E. Cumulative outcome of pre-implantation genetic diagnosis for sickle cell disease: a 5-year review. Br J Haematol 2020; 191:875-879. [PMID: 32621537 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.16930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
To review the cumulative outcome of pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) cycles performed for prevention of sickle cell disease (SCD). Couples referred for PGD for SCD between April 2012 and October 2017 were included. Ovarian stimulation was performed using a short gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist protocol and follicle-stimulating hormone injections. The GnRH agonist was used to trigger oocyte maturation. Oocytes were fertilised using intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Trophectoderm biopsy was performed on day 5 or 6 followed by vitrification. Genetic testing was done using pre-implantation genetic haplotyping. A total of 60 couples started 70 fresh PGD cycles (mean 1·2 cycles/couple) and underwent a total of 74 frozen-embryo-transfer (FET) cycles (mean 1·3 FET/couple). The mean (SD) female age was 33 (4·4) years and the mean (SD) anti-müllerian hormone level was 22·9 (2·8) pmol/l. The cumulative live-birth rate was 54%/PGD cycle started and 63%/couple embarking on PGD. The rate of multiple births was 8%. The cumulative outcome of PGD treatment for prevention of SCD transmission is high and PGD treatment should be offered to all at-risk couples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saaliha Vali
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Assisted Conception Unit, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Sunbal Mukhtar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Assisted Conception Unit, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Anupa Nandi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Assisted Conception Unit, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Kieren Wilson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Assisted Conception Unit, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Laura Oakley
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Tarek El-Toukhy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Assisted Conception Unit, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Eugene Oteng-Ntim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Assisted Conception Unit, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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