H. Harris et al., PILOT-STUDY OF THE ACCEPTABILITY OF CYSTIC-FIBROSIS CARRIER TESTING DURING ROUTINE ANTENATAL CONSULTATIONS IN GENERAL-PRACTICE, British journal of general practice, 46(405), 1996, pp. 225-227
Background. In 1989, the gene for cystic fibrosis was cloned and it be
came possible to detect carriers of the gene among the general populat
ion, including pregnant women. Aim. The aim of the pilot study was to
assess the acceptability of integrating cystic fibrosis carrier testin
g into antenatal care by general practitioners at the first booking ap
pointment. Method. Between 1 September 1991 and 31 August 1992, inclus
ive, all patients receiving routine antenatal care in a two-partner tr
aining practice in south Manchester were offered carrier testing for c
ystic fibrosis using a computer protocol for antenatal care developed
by the practice. A questionnaire including a Spielberger state-trait a
nxiety inventory was sent to patients 2 weeks after they received the
results of their carrier test, and interviews with the patients in the
ir home were carried out 4 weeks and one year after they received the
result. Results. All but one patient (75 out of 76) booking before 14
weeks of pregnancy accepted the offer of cystic fibrosis carrier testi
ng, and 96% (72 out of 75) felt that they had made the right decision
and that they had enough time for discussion with their general practi
tioner before testing. Conclusions. Cystic fibrosis carrier testing ca
n be success fully integrated into the antenatal booking appointment i
n general practice and is acceptable to patients. This is a model for
other genetic screening opportunities resulting from advances in medic
al genetics.