Psycho-social effects of DNA diagnosis
Kaiya, H.
Rinsho Shinkeigaku 35(12): 1427-1428
1995
ISSN/ISBN: 0009-918X PMID: 8752419 Document Number: 450589
(1) A VIEWPOINT OF PATIENTS/FAMILIES WITH MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY (MD). The results of questionnaire survey about DNA diagnosis in the members of JMDA, performed in 1992, were as following: The rate having a knowledge of DNA diagnosis (ca one third) did not differ between in patients and families, but more families accept DNA diagnosis, especially prenatal examinations, than patients. (2) AN ATTITUDE OF DOCTORS TOWARD DNA DIAGNOSIS OF MD. Eighty percent of doctors having answered a questionnaire were of the opinion that DNA examinations in MD should be met by health insurance coverage. Genetic counselors work in just 24% of the institutions. Most doctors' consultation seems still content-oriented than person-oriented. (3) PRESENT PROBLEMS. Informed-choice and DNA privacy should be respected more. Nonofficial laboratories are keeping DNA materials of patients. They impose voluntary but not legal controls upon themselves. Official quality control for DNA examinations also will be required. (4) THE FUTURE PROSPECTS. One of the resolutions of present ethical and economical issues is establishing DNA Medicine Foundation for MD with a DNA Bank, which will be conducted medical staff and patient/family group under the support of the Ministry of Health.