Genetic testing may help prospective parents ‘be prepared’

Because the threat of genetic birth defects is still very real, says Dr. Neena Champaigne of UTMB's Division of Clinical Genetics, prospective parents who fall into several broad categories definitely should seek genetic counseling and screening before starting a family. Around two to three percent of all babies are born with birth defects notes Champagne. That number hasn't changed much over the years, despite advances in prenatal health care. Women who are over 35, or who have histories of multiple miscarriages should seek counseling, as should women and men who have family histories of genetic conditions such as birth defects and mental retardation. This advice also applies to members of specific ethnic groups. Caucasians, for example, should be screened for cystic fibrosis and African-Americans for sickle cell anemia. Cajuns and Ashkenazi Jews (Jews of eastern European descent) should be screened for Tay-Sachs disease.