Sociological aspects of genetic carrier screening for autosomal recessive disorders

Abstract

Genetic carrier screening for autosomal-recessive disorders is an important part of hereditary diseases prevention at the stage of family planning. Patients of the Bauman clinic (18-49 years old women and men older 18 years) were asked to read a brochure about carrier screening for autosomal-recessive disorders and fill out an anonymous questionnaire to identify their attitudes towards screening. The questionnaire showed a positive attitude of the participants towards genetic screening, as 73% of respondents expressed a desire to undergo screening, but 46% had concerns about its possible negative consequences. With the further implementation of carrier screening by the healthcare system, it is important to organize educational work that will inform the population about the role of screening and for eliminating undesirable consequences.