Prenatal testing results lead to abortions
September 19th, 2007In a study illustrating the potential downside of prenatal genetic testing, researchers reported Tuesday that 25 percent of couples whose unborn babies had a certain genetic mutation chose to terminate their pregnancies—even though that particular abnormality probably would not have resulted in serious health problems.
I remember even 18 years ago being asked questions by our OB/GYN about prenatal testing. I asked him why we would even consider such testing. He gave us the answer that it might help us determine if there are any “abnormalities”.
I also remember VERY matter-of-factly informing him that whether the test showed abnormalities or not, it would not affect our resolve to CONTINUE parenting this child.
We opted to NOT have the testing.
Any of you seen the movie “Gattaca”? That’s what this reminds me of.
People making irresponsible decisions is one of the sad outgrowths of genetic research. As we learn more about genetics, we understand that there are predispositions that some have toward certain cancers. That doesn’t mean that you will get that particular cancer, just that you have an elevated risk. There are already women having mastectomies simply because they test positive for the BRCA 1 and 1 gene mutation. That’s insane.
This is even more sad to me now because I was watching “My Left Foot” the other night.
I think we all agree that screening for Gaucher is questionable. However, screening for Tay-Sachs and other serious diseases is very important.
“Any of you seen the movie “Gattaca”?”
Good flick.