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A Methodology for Simulating the Impact of DNA-probe Services on the Outcomes of Pregnancies

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  14 October 2009

Roger Beech
Affiliation:
United Medical and Dental Schools, Guy's and St. Thomas's Hospitals, London
Roberto J. Rona
Affiliation:
United Medical and Dental Schools, Guy's and St. Thomas's Hospitals, London
Anthony V. Swan
Affiliation:
United Medical and Dental Schools, Guy's and St. Thomas's Hospitals, London
Oonagh M. Wilson
Affiliation:
United Medical and Dental Schools, Guy's and St. Thomas's Hospitals, London
Sundhiya Mandalia
Affiliation:
United Medical and Dental Schools, Guy's and St. Thomas's Hospitals, London

Abstract

For certain single-gene disorders, DNA probes allow individuals to make more informed decisions about family size and the outcomes of pregnancies. They may also have important psychological effects. We present a method of assessing their impact on the outcomes of pregnancy. We conclude that the traditional approach, which focuses solely on the potential of prenatal diagnostic services to reduce affected births, is limited. It neglects the potential of such services to promote an increase in unaffected births by reducing the number of unnecessary terminations.

Type
General Essays
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1992

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References

REFERENCES

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