PRENATAL DEVELOPMENT AND TESTING Introduction

The purpose of this paper is to examine prenatal testing. To this end, the paper first defines prenatal testing and delineates its basic methods. This is followed by a discussion of some of the most common birth defects and the accuracy of prenatal testing for these conditions. The paper then examines various problems and dangers associated with prenatal testing. The review ends with a serious of conclusions about prenatal testing formulated based on the reviewed material.

Prenatal Testing, Purposes and Methods

A prenatal test is an optional medical test available to people who are considered to be at increased risk for having children with a chromosomal abnormality or an inherited genetic condition (Lemons & Brock, 1990). In certain cases, the testing is used for the purpose of discovering and treating the condition; while in other cases, the purpose is for parents to make an informed decision as to whether they wish to take the child to term making preparations for

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ing to Painter (1997), there is no treatment for this condition which results in profound dementia with most individuals dying in institutions. Carriers of the disease often undergo prenatal testing, usually followed by abortion when the gene is found. An interesting study of the demand for predictive genetic testing for Huntington's disease was conducted by Taylor (1994). The research was conducted from 1987 to March 1993 using survey methods. Specifically, questionnaires were sent to all State coordinators of genetic testing services. One hundred and ninety adults (5.5 percent of those at risk) and 56 fetuses were tested. Findings revealed that nine per cent more women than men used the service. Most people tested were married and had offspring. Men generally presented for testing at an older age than women. It was concluded that the low uptake for testing was not surprising given the severity and untreatability of the illness. Careful monitoring was recommended regarding the test for Huntington's, particularly of the effects on individuals told of their genetic status and of possible abuse of the information by third parties. Bloch and Hayden (1990) also discussed some of the problems and dangers associated with p
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Approximate Word count = 3936
Approximate Pages = 16 (250 words per page)

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