Acceptance of prenatal diagnosis for genetic disorders in Lebanon

Acceptance of prenatal diagnosis and termination of pregnancy in the case o f an affected fetus may vary from one country to another, depending on the health system,religious belief, cultural and educational backgrounds of the population. Following a previous study on couples at risk for a haemoglobi n disorder in Lebanon, we have here interviewed 90 couples at risk for a va riety of genetic disorders, in order to assess their acceptance of prenatal diagnosis and the variables that might influence their choice. Overall, 54 per cent of couples said they would request diagnosis in their next pregna ncy, while 26 per cent were opposed to such a:procedure. In 87.5 per cent o f cases, the reason for refusal was because of religious conviction against termination of pregnancy. Refusal of prenatal diagnosis was also related t o a lower socio-economic background and poorer education. Only 12 per cent of couples were properly aware of their genetic risk. Therefore, for preven tion of genetic disorders, the emphasis in countries such as Lebanon has pr obably to be placed on public awareness about genetic risks, the risks of c onsanguinity, availability of services, while taking into consideration the personal beliefs of the individuals. Copyright (C) 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.