Genetics Revolution: Health Story
Aired on Superstation WGNSaturday, January 29 and March 12, 2005Show 204
"There is a misconception that genetic testing is "search and destroy." It's not. It is aptly used to identify a problem early to get the best possible outcome. Forewarned is to be forearmed," says Dr. Stephen Emery of Medical Genetics at Cleveland Clinic. Dr. Brian A. Clark Director of Medical Genetics notes, "If the results are normal, then parents don't worry during the pregnancy." A pregnant Leanne Woehlke had the opposite experience. Her ultrasound showed markers for Trisomy 18, the most common genetic disorder. In spite of this, she and her husband decided to carry the baby to term. "They faced their pregnancy with tremendous courage," says Dr. Emery. "These aren't strictly medical decisions. They are ethical, moral, personal and emotional decisions."
For more about Prenatal Genetics at Cleveland Clinic click here.
For information about the Trisomy 18 Foundation click here.
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