Cystic Fibrosis: Prenatal Screening and Diagnosis
Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a genetically inherited disorder affecting children and young adults. This disorder leads to problems with digestion and respiration, and can shorten the life-span of an individual. Symptoms of CF include build-up of thick mucus in the lungs causing congestion and associated respiratory problems. Mucus build up is also seen in the digestive tract leading to difficulty in the absorption of nutrients.
Preconception Carrier Screening
Preconception Carrier Screening is a screening option, available for a woman planning to become pregnant that allows her doctor to identify conditions, which have the potential to adversely impact the health of her foetus (developing baby) in the future. This is done at a point in time when the woman can have the widest range of personal and reproductive choices and helps to predict the possibility of having a child with a genetic disorder.
Genetic Disorders
About one in 20 pregnancies results in a birth defect which may be a minor structural abnormality, mental retardation or a serious genetic disease. Genetic disorders are caused by defects in the genes or chromosomes.
