Genetic Counselling 101 : Everything You Need to Know
Did you know that you have an increased risk of developing colon cancer if :
You have 3 relatives or more who had a history of the disease. One of them is a first- degree relative. (parent, brother, sister, or child)
At least 2 successive generations are affected.
At least 1 relative had their cancer when they were younger than age of 50.
But the good news is even if one or all of the above criteria sounds true for you, you need not worry.
You can drastically reduce the risks of getting the cancer by starting screening at an early age, taking some precautions and most importantly by seeking proper medical counselling.
This proper medical counselling that you require is known as genetic counselling.
So, what exactly is genetic counselling and who needs it?
In the article, we shall discuss:
Who is a genetic counsellor ?
Who needs genetic counselling?
What can you expect from a counselling session?
1. Who is a Genetic Counsellor?
A Genetic counsellor is a multi-disciplinary specialist trained in both genetics as well as psychology.
They are specifically trained to help families and individuals with family history or high risk of getting genetic diseases.
They advise you on whether you require specific genetic testing, and interpret your condition.
Additionally, they also help you understand the genetic condition in relation to cultural, personal and familial contexts and even suggest some psychological tools to reduce the family's anxiety.
Genetic counsellors hold a Master's Degree in Genetic Counselling, in addition to other sub specialties like prognostics and pediatrics.
2. Who needs Genetic Counselling?
Generally, families or patients who are at an increased risk of developing genetic disorders due to past family history opt for genetic counselling.
But, genetic counselling is not only useful but important in the following scenarios:
Incase you are planning to have a baby and want to screen for safety and genetic risks .
Incase you are a lady who has had multiple miscarriages.
Incase you want to know about common genetic conditions and risks in your community or ethnic group.
Incase you have a child with an inherited disorder, birth defect or developmental delay.
Incase you are a lady who is pregnant or plans to become pregnant at or after the age of 35.
Incase your tests show an abnormal chromosomal situation.
Incase your Polygenetic Risk Score is Higher than average.
3. What Can You Expect From a Counselling Session?
In a counselling session, your counsellor will ask you about your personal medical history and detailed family history.
They will then address your specific concerns and queries incase you have any. They might even perform some specific tests if necessary.
If you are diagnosed with a medical condition, your counsellor will prepare your treatment plan with informed consent.
Incase you are worried, be clear :
Your counsellor will provide with the relevant information and you will decide.
They will not make personal decisions on your behalf like whether you should have children or not.
They will take care of your privacy and personal beliefs.
They will help you interpret complex medical information into simple terms .
Genetic counselling is not something risky or dangerous, it is a facility you can avail to better understand your condition and plan your future.
Genetic counsellors are extensively trained to deal with complex issues with empathy and professionalism. They are there to help you make the best possible decision for yourself and your family.
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK115552/
https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=when-to-seek-genetic-counseling-90-P02118
https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-is-genetic-counseling