Genetic Counseling

Genic Counseling (pronounced: jen-et-ik koun-suh-ling) is a process that involves the communication of the complexities and implications of genetic disorders to individuals or families. It is a practice that is integral to the field of Genetics and Genomic Medicine.

Etymology

The term "Genetic Counseling" is derived from the English words "genetic", pertaining to genes, and "counseling", which means giving advice. It was first used in the context of medical genetics in the mid-20th century.

Definition

Genetic Counseling is a communication process which deals with the human problems associated with the occurrence, or the risk of occurrence, of a genetic disorder in a family. This process involves an attempt by one or more appropriately trained persons to help the individual or family to: (1) comprehend the medical facts, including the diagnosis, probable course of the disorder, and the available management; (2) appreciate the way heredity contributes to the disorder, and the risk of recurrence in specified relatives; (3) understand the options for dealing with the risk of recurrence; (4) choose the course of action which seems to them appropriate in view of their risk, their family goals, and their ethical and religious standards, and to act in accordance with that decision; and (5) make the best possible adjustment to the disorder in an affected family member and/or to the risk of recurrence of that disorder.

Related Terms

Genetic Disorder: A disease that is caused by an abnormality in an individual's DNA. It can be inherited through the genes, or it can be caused by mutations or changes in the genes.
Genomic Medicine: An emerging medical discipline that involves using genomic information about an individual as part of their clinical care and the health outcomes and implications of that clinical care.
Genetics: The study of genes, genetic variation, and heredity in living organisms.
Mutation: A change in the DNA sequence that makes up a gene.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Genetic Counseling
Wikipedia's article - Genetic Counseling

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Genetic Counseling