Genetic testing

There are many tests that can be used to detect defective genes.

	Sickle cell anaemia.

Genetic testing helps doctors determine whether you, or a relative, are carriers of a disorder or are at an increased risk of developing one. For instance, with pre-natal diagnostics you can determine whether your fetus has a genetic disorder and then get appropriate counselling. If a family member contracts cancer, a predictive gene-test can indicate whether you are likely to develop the same type of cancer. Whatever type of diagnostic testing you use, it often means difficult choices.

For parents with a serious genetic disease, preimplantation diagnostics and in-vitro conception allow doctors to select and implant a healthy embryo in the mother's uterus.

	Ultrasound of a baby boy.

A number of tests, such as amniocentesis, the nuchal translucency test and the chorionic villus sampling may determine whether the foetus has Down syndrome, sickle cell anaemia or other genetic anomalies.

Many advocacy groups have serious concerns about genetic screening and prenatal genetic testing. They feel that the widespread use of these tests may lead to the abortion of foetuses with diseases and disorders, thereby devaluing the lives of people living with these conditions.