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van den Heuvel LM, van den Berg N, Janssens ACJW, Birnie E, Henneman L, Dondorp WJ, Plantinga M, van Langen IM. Societal implications of expanded universal carrier screening: a scoping review. Eur J Hum Genet 2023; 31:55-72. [PMID: 36097155 PMCID: PMC9822904 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-022-01178-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Carrier screening aims to identify couples at risk of conceiving children with a recessive condition. Until recently, carrier screening was primarily offered ancestry-based. Technological advances now facilitate expanded universal carrier screening (EUCS). This scoping review aimed to map EUCS's potential societal implications based on both theoretical studies and empirical evidence. To this aim, we performed a CoCites search to find relevant articles, including articles describing carrier screening for at-risk populations, based on five selected query articles. Forty articles were included. Three main potential societal implications were identified: (1) unwanted medicalization, (2) stigmatization and discrimination of carriers and people affected with the conditions screened and (3) challenges in achieving equitable access. Within these themes, potential positive implications are reduction of ethnic stigmatization in ancestry-based offers and increased equity. Potential negative implications are reinforcement of disability-based stigmatization, less possibility for developing expertise in healthcare and societal pressure to partake in screening. Empirical evidence on all these implications is however scarce. In conclusion, both positive and negative potential societal implications of implementing EUCS, primarily theoretical, were identified, even in at-risk groups where evidence is mostly lacking. Empirical research in EUCS pilots is needed to identify which societal implications are likely to occur and therefore should be overcome when implementing EUCS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lieke M. van den Heuvel
- grid.4494.d0000 0000 9558 4598Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands ,grid.12380.380000 0004 1754 9227Department of Human Genetics and Amsterdam Reproduction and Development research institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nina van den Berg
- grid.4494.d0000 0000 9558 4598Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands ,grid.12380.380000 0004 1754 9227Department of Human Genetics and Amsterdam Reproduction and Development research institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A. Cecile J. W. Janssens
- grid.189967.80000 0001 0941 6502Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Erwin Birnie
- grid.4494.d0000 0000 9558 4598Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Lidewij Henneman
- grid.12380.380000 0004 1754 9227Department of Human Genetics and Amsterdam Reproduction and Development research institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wybo J. Dondorp
- grid.5012.60000 0001 0481 6099Department of Health, Ethics & Society, Research Schools CAPHRI and GROW, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Mirjam Plantinga
- grid.4494.d0000 0000 9558 4598Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Irene M. van Langen
- grid.4494.d0000 0000 9558 4598Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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Kariyawasam D, D’Silva A, Mowat D, Russell J, Sampaio H, Jones K, Taylor P, Farrar M. Incidence of Duchenne muscular dystrophy in the modern era; an Australian study. Eur J Hum Genet 2022; 30:1398-1404. [PMID: 35754057 PMCID: PMC9712523 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-022-01138-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), an X-linked recessive condition is maternally inherited in two-thirds of affected boys. It is important to establish carrier status of female relatives to restore reproductive confidence for non-carriers and facilitate reproductive options and cardiac surveillance for carriers. This study investigates disease incidence within an Australian model of cascade screening and evolving genetic diagnostic technologies. A retrospective population-based cohort study of all genetically and/or histopathologically confirmed males with DMD, born in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory was undertaken from 2002-2012. Cases were identified using state-wide molecular laboratory and clinical databases. The annual disease incidence and "theoretically" preventable cases were extrapolated over the study period. Proband genotype/phenotype, pedigree analysis, carrier-risk and extent of cascade screening were also determined. The cumulative incidence of disease was 19.7 per 100,000 male live births and 1 in 5076 live born males were diagnosed with DMD. Differences in disease incidence were not statistically different when compared between 2002-2007 and 2008-2012 (incidence rate ratio = 1.13, 95% CI 0.76-1.69, p = 0.52). The incidence rate ratio of theoretically preventable cases did not significantly change between 2002-2007 and 2008-2012 (incidence rate ratio = 2.07, 95% CI 0.58-9.21, p = 0.23). Current diagnostic and cascade screening models have limitations in their impact on disease incidence, due to a spectrum of logistical, patient and condition related factors. Innovative approaches to reduce DMD incidence may be better achieved by preconception or early pregnancy carrier screening, prenatal exome sequencing and newborn screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Didu Kariyawasam
- Department of Neurology, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Sydney, NSW, Australia. .,School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine and Health, Randwick Clinical Campus, Discipline of Paediatrics, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Arlene D’Silva
- grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine and Health, Randwick Clinical Campus, Discipline of Paediatrics, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - David Mowat
- grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine and Health, Randwick Clinical Campus, Discipline of Paediatrics, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW Australia ,grid.414009.80000 0001 1282 788XCentre for Clinical Genetics, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Jacqui Russell
- grid.414009.80000 0001 1282 788XCentre for Clinical Genetics, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Hugo Sampaio
- grid.414009.80000 0001 1282 788XDepartment of Neurology, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Kristi Jones
- grid.413973.b0000 0000 9690 854XDepartment of Clinical Genetics, Children’s Hospital Westmead, Westmead, NSW Australia ,grid.1013.30000 0004 1936 834XPaediatrics and Child Health, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney NSW Australia, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Peter Taylor
- Genomic Diagnostics, Healius Pathology, Melbourne, Vic Australia
| | - Michelle Farrar
- grid.414009.80000 0001 1282 788XDepartment of Neurology, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, Sydney, NSW Australia ,grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine and Health, Randwick Clinical Campus, Discipline of Paediatrics, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW Australia
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van Dijke I, van El CG, Lakeman P, Goddijn M, Rigter T, Cornel MC, Henneman L. Dynamics of reproductive genetic technologies: Perspectives of professional stakeholders. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0269719. [PMID: 35727796 PMCID: PMC9212161 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0269719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproductive and genetic medicine are evolving rapidly, and new technologies are already impacting current practices. This includes technologies that can identify a couples' risk of having a child with a genetic disorder. Responsible implementation of new technologies requires evaluation of safety and ethics. Valuable insights for shaping governance processes are provided by various stakeholders involved, including healthcare professionals. Their willingness to adopt these technologies and guide the necessary systemic changes is required for the successful implementation of these technologies. In this study, twenty-one semi-structured interviews were conducted with professionals from different disciplines in the field of reproductive and genetic healthcare in the Netherlands. Three emerging technologies were discussed: expanded carrier screening (ECS), non-invasive prenatal diagnosis (NIPD) and germline genome editing (GGE). By probing stakeholders' views, we explored how culture, structure and practice in healthcare is being shaped by innovations and changing dynamics in genetic and reproductive medicine. The general consensus was that the implementation of reproductive genetic technologies nationwide is a slow process in Dutch healthcare. A "typical Dutch approach" emerged that is characterized by restrictive legislation, broad support for people living with disabilities, values of an egalitarian society and limited commercialisation. Different scenarios for embedding ECS in future practice were envisioned, while implementation of NIPD in clinical practice was considered obvious. Views on GGE varied among stakeholders. Previous implementation examples in the Netherlands suggest introduction of new technology involves an organized collective learning process, with pilot studies and stepwise implementation. In addition, introducing and scaling up new technologies is complex due to perceived barriers from the legislative framework and the complex relationship between the government and stakeholders in this area. This paper describes how the international trends and advances of technologies are expected to manifest itself in a national setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivy van Dijke
- Department of Human Genetics and Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Center for Reproductive Medicine and Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carla G. van El
- Department of Human Genetics and Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Phillis Lakeman
- Department of Human Genetics and Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mariëtte Goddijn
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Center for Reproductive Medicine and Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tessel Rigter
- Department of Human Genetics and Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martina C. Cornel
- Department of Human Genetics and Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lidewij Henneman
- Department of Human Genetics and Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Wiertsema SH, Donker MH, van Dongen JM, Geleijn E, Bloemers FW, Ostelo RW, de Groot V. The Transmural Trauma Care Model can be implemented well but some barriers and facilitators should be considered during implementation: a mixed methods study. J Physiother 2021; 67:298-307. [PMID: 34511380 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphys.2021.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
QUESTIONS What is the reach, dose delivered, dose received and fidelity of the Transmural Trauma Care Model (TTCM)? What are the barriers and facilitators associated with the implementation of the TTCM? DESIGN Mixed-methods process evaluation with quantitative evaluation of the extent to which the TTCM was implemented as intended and qualitative evaluation of barriers and facilitators to its implementation. PARTICIPANTS Focus group participants included trauma patients, trauma surgeons, hospital-based physiotherapists and primary care network physiotherapists. OUTCOME MEASURES Implementation was assessed with reach, dose delivered, dose received and fidelity. DATA ANALYSIS A framework method was used to analyse the focus groups and the 'constellation approach' was used to categorise barriers and facilitators into three categories: structure, culture and practice. RESULTS The TTCM's reach was 81%, its dose delivered was 99% and 100%, and its dose received was 95% and 96% for the multidisciplinary TTCM consultation hours at the outpatient clinic for trauma patients and the primary care network physiotherapists, respectively. Various fidelity scores ranged from 66 to 93%. Numerous barriers and facilitators associated with the implementation of the TTCM were identified and categorised. CONCLUSION This process evaluation showed that the TTCM was largely implemented as intended. Furthermore, various facilitators and barriers were identified that need to be considered when implementing the TTCM more widely. Differences were found among stakeholders but they were generally of the opinion that if the barriers were overcome, the quality of care and patient satisfaction were likely to improve significantly after implementing the TTCM. REGISTRATION NTR5474.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne H Wiertsema
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
| | - Marianne H Donker
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Johanna M van Dongen
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Edwin Geleijn
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Frank W Bloemers
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Trauma Surgery, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Raymond Wjg Ostelo
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Vincent de Groot
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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5
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Capalbo A, Fabiani M, Caroselli S, Poli M, Girardi L, Patassini C, Favero F, Cimadomo D, Vaiarelli A, Simon C, Rienzi LF, Ubaldi FM. Clinical validity and utility of preconception expanded carrier screening for the management of reproductive genetic risk in IVF and general population. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:2050-2061. [PMID: 34021342 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the clinical validity and utility of preconception Expanded Carrier Screening (ECS) application on the management of prospective parents? SUMMARY ANSWER The high detection rate of at-risk couples (ARCs) and the high proportion opting for IVF/preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) treatment demonstrate the clinical utility of ECS in the preconception space in IVF and general population. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY About 2-4% of couples are at risk of conceiving a child with an autosomal recessive or X-linked genetic disorder. In recent years, the increasing cost-effectiveness of genetic diagnostic techniques has allowed the creation of ECS panels for the simultaneous detection of multiple recessive disorders. Comprehensive preconception genetic screening holds the potential to significantly improve couple's genetic risk assessment and reproductive planning to avoid detectable inheritable genetic offspring. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A total of 3877 individuals without a family history of genetic conditions were analyzed between January 2017 and January 2020. Of the enrolled individuals, 1212 were gamete donors and 2665 were patients planning on conceiving from both the IVF and the natural conception group. From the non-donor cohort, 1133 were analyzed as individual patients, while the remaining ones were analyzed as couples, for a total of 766 couples. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS A focused ECS panel was developed following American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology ACOG-recommended criteria (prevalence, carrier rate, severity), including highly penetrant severe childhood conditions. Couples were defined at-risk when both partners carried an autosomal recessive pathogenic/likely pathogenic variant (PLP) on the same gene or when the woman was a carrier of an X-linked PLP variant. ARC detection rate defined the clinical validity of the ECS approach. Clinical utility was evaluated by monitoring ARCs reproductive decision making. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A total of 402 individuals (10.4%) showed PLP for at least one of the genes tested. Among the 766 couples tested, 173 showed one carrier partner (22.6%), whereas 20 couples (2.6%) were found to be at increased risk. Interestingly, one ARC was identified as a result of cascade testing in the extended family of an individual carrying a pathogenic variant on the Survival Of Motor Neuron 1SMN1 gene. Of the identified ARCs, 5 (0.7%) were at risk for cystic fibrosis, 5 (0.7%) for fragile X syndrome, 4 (0.5%) for spinal muscular atrophy, 4 (0.5%) for Beta-Thalassemia/Sickle Cell Anemia, 1 (0.1%) for Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome and 1 (0.1%) for Duchenne/Becker Dystrophy. Fifteen ARCs were successfully followed up from both the IVF and the natural conception groups. All of these (15/15) modified their reproductive planning by undergoing ART with Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic disease and Aneuploidies (PGT-M and PGT-A). To date, 6/15 (40%) couples completed their PGT cycle with euploid/unaffected embryos achieving a pregnancy after embryo transfer and three of them have already had an unaffected baby. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The use of a limited panel of core gene-disease pairs represents a limitation on the research perspective as it can underestimate the rate of detectable carriers and ARCs in this cohort of prospective parents. Expanding the scope of ECS to a larger panel of conditions is becoming increasingly feasible, thanks to a persistent technological evolution and progressive cataloging of gene-disease associations. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These results highlight the potential clinical validity and utility of ECS in reducing the risk of a pregnancy affected by a detectable inheritable genetic condition. The steady reduction in the costs of genetic analyses enables the expansion of monogenic testing/screening applications at the preimplantation stage, thus, providing valid decisional support and reproductive autonomy to patients, particularly in the context of IVF. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) No external funding was used for this study. A.C., M.F., S.C., M.P., L.G., and C.P. are employees of Igenomix Italy. C.S. is the head of the scientific board of Igenomix. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Capalbo
- Igenomix Italy, Marostica, Italy.,Igenomix Foundation, INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | - M Poli
- Igenomix Italy, Marostica, Italy
| | | | | | | | - D Cimadomo
- GeneraLife, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | - A Vaiarelli
- GeneraLife, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | - C Simon
- Igenomix Italy, Marostica, Italy.,Igenomix Foundation, INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology BIDMC, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - L F Rienzi
- GeneraLife, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | - F M Ubaldi
- GeneraLife, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
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6
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Hosen MJ, Anwar S, Taslem Mourosi J, Chakraborty S, Miah MF, Vanakker OM. Genetic counseling in the context of Bangladesh: current scenario, challenges, and a framework for genetic service implementation. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2021; 16:168. [PMID: 33836792 PMCID: PMC8034097 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-021-01804-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
With the advancements in genetics and genomics in the twenty-first century, genetic services have become an integral part of medical practices in high-income and upper-middle-income countries. However, people living in low and lower-middle-income countries (LICs and LIMCs), including Bangladesh, are rather underprivileged in receiving genetic services. Consequently, genetic disorders are emerging as a significant public health concern in these countries. Lack of expertise, high expense, the dearth of epidemiological data, insufficiently updated medical education system, poor infrastructure, and the absence of comprehensive health policies are the main factors causing people living in these countries not having access to genetic services. In this article, the authors took benefit from their professional experience of practicing medical genetics in the area and reviewed existing literature to provide their opinions. Particularly, it reviews the current knowledge of genetic disorders' burden and their causative factors in Bangladesh. It focuses on why providing genetic services is challenging in the context of the country's cultural and religious sentiment. Finally, it proposes a physician-academician collaborative framework within the existing facility that aims to tackle the challenges. Such a framework could also be useful for other LICs and LMICs to address the challenges associated with providing genetic services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Jakir Hosen
- Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet, 3114 Bangladesh
| | - Saeed Anwar
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, 8440 112 St. NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R7 Canada
| | - Jarin Taslem Mourosi
- Department of Biology, The Catholic University of America, 620 Michigan Avenue NE, Washington, DC 20064 USA
| | - Sourav Chakraborty
- Research and Development Laboratory, Globe Biotech Limited, Tejgaon, Dhaka, 1208 Bangladesh
| | - Md. Faruque Miah
- Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet, 3114 Bangladesh
| | - Olivier M. Vanakker
- Center for Medical Genetics, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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7
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van Dijk T, Kater A, Jansen M, Dondorp WJ, Blom M, Kemp S, Langeveld M, Cornel MC, van der Pal SM, Henneman L. Expanding Neonatal Bloodspot Screening: A Multi-Stakeholder Perspective. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:706394. [PMID: 34692604 PMCID: PMC8527172 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.706394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Neonatal bloodspot screening (NBS) aims to detect treatable disorders in newborns. The number of conditions included in the screening is expanding through technological and therapeutic developments, which can result in health gain for more newborns. NBS expansion, however, also poses healthcare, ethical and societal challenges. This qualitative study explores a multi-stakeholders' perspective on current and future expansions of NBS. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 Dutch professionals, including healthcare professionals, test developers and policy makers, and 17 parents of children with normal and abnormal NBS results. Addressed themes were (1) benefits and challenges of current expansion, (2) expectations regarding future developments, and (3) NBS acceptance and consent procedures. Overall, participants had a positive attitude toward NBS expansion, as long as it is aimed at detecting treatable disorders and achieving health gain. Concerns were raised regarding an increase in results of uncertain significance, diagnosing asymptomatic mothers, screening of subgroups ("males only"), finding untreatable disorders, along with increasingly complex consent procedures. Regarding the scope of future NBS expansions, two types of stakeholder perspectives emerged. Stakeholders with a "targeted-scope" perspective saw health gain for the neonate as the exclusive NBS aim. They thought pre-test information could be limited, and parents should be protected against too much options or information. Stakeholders with a "broad-scope" perspective thought the NBS aim should be formulated broader, for example, also taking (reproductive) life planning into account. They put more emphasis on individual preferences and parental autonomy. Policy-makers should engage with both perspectives when making further decisions about NBS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa van Dijk
- Department of Human Genetics and Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Adriana Kater
- Department of Human Genetics and Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marleen Jansen
- Department of Human Genetics and Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Wybo J Dondorp
- Department of Health, Ethics and Society, CAPHRI Care and Public Health Research Institute, and Research School GROW for Oncology & Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Maartje Blom
- Laboratory for Pediatric Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Willem-Alexander Children's Hospital, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Stephan Kemp
- Laboratory Genetic Metabolic Diseases, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Gastroenterology and Metabolism, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Mirjam Langeveld
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Martina C Cornel
- Department of Human Genetics and Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Lidewij Henneman
- Department of Human Genetics and Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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8
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Capalbo A, Poli M, Riera-Escamilla A, Shukla V, Kudo Høffding M, Krausz C, Hoffmann ER, Simon C. Preconception genome medicine: current state and future perspectives to improve infertility diagnosis and reproductive and health outcomes based on individual genomic data. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 27:254-279. [PMID: 33197264 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our genetic code is now readable, writable and hackable. The recent escalation of genome-wide sequencing (GS) applications in population diagnostics will not only enable the assessment of risks of transmitting well-defined monogenic disorders at preconceptional stages (i.e. carrier screening), but also facilitate identification of multifactorial genetic predispositions to sub-lethal pathologies, including those affecting reproductive fitness. Through GS, the acquisition and curation of reproductive-related findings will warrant the expansion of genetic assessment to new areas of genomic prediction of reproductive phenotypes, pharmacogenomics and molecular embryology, further boosting our knowledge and therapeutic tools for treating infertility and improving women's health. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE In this article, we review current knowledge and potential development of preconception genome analysis aimed at detecting reproductive and individual health risks (recessive genetic disease and medically actionable secondary findings) as well as anticipating specific reproductive outcomes, particularly in the context of IVF. The extension of reproductive genetic risk assessment to the general population and IVF couples will lead to the identification of couples who carry recessive mutations, as well as sub-lethal conditions prior to conception. This approach will provide increased reproductive autonomy to couples, particularly in those cases where preimplantation genetic testing is an available option to avoid the transmission of undesirable conditions. In addition, GS on prospective infertility patients will enable genome-wide association studies specific for infertility phenotypes such as predisposition to premature ovarian failure, increased risk of aneuploidies, complete oocyte immaturity or blastocyst development failure, thus empowering the development of true reproductive precision medicine. SEARCH METHODS Searches of the literature on PubMed Central included combinations of the following MeSH terms: human, genetics, genomics, variants, male, female, fertility, next generation sequencing, genome exome sequencing, expanded carrier screening, secondary findings, pharmacogenomics, controlled ovarian stimulation, preconception, genetics, genome-wide association studies, GWAS. OUTCOMES Through PubMed Central queries, we identified a total of 1409 articles. The full list of articles was assessed for date of publication, limiting the search to studies published within the last 15 years (2004 onwards due to escalating research output of next-generation sequencing studies from that date). The remaining articles' titles were assessed for pertinence to the topic, leaving a total of 644 articles. The use of preconception GS has the potential to identify inheritable genetic conditions concealed in the genome of around 4% of couples looking to conceive. Genomic information during reproductive age will also be useful to anticipate late-onset medically actionable conditions with strong genetic background in around 2-4% of all individuals. Genetic variants correlated with differential response to pharmaceutical treatment in IVF, and clear genotype-phenotype associations are found for aberrant sperm types, oocyte maturation, fertilization or pre- and post-implantation embryonic development. All currently known capabilities of GS at the preconception stage are reviewed along with persisting and forthcoming barriers for the implementation of precise reproductive medicine. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The expansion of sequencing analysis to additional monogenic and polygenic traits may enable the development of cost-effective preconception tests capable of identifying underlying genetic causes of infertility, which have been defined as 'unexplained' until now, thus leading to the development of a true personalized genomic medicine framework in reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Capalbo
- Igenomix Italy, Marostica, Italy.,Igenomix Foundation, INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Antoni Riera-Escamilla
- Andrology Department, Fundació Puigvert, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Sant Pau (IIB-Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Vallari Shukla
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, DRNF Center for Chromosome Stability, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Miya Kudo Høffding
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, DRNF Center for Chromosome Stability, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Csilla Krausz
- Andrology Department, Fundació Puigvert, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Sant Pau (IIB-Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", Centre of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Eva R Hoffmann
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, DRNF Center for Chromosome Stability, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Carlos Simon
- Igenomix Foundation, INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology BIDMC, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
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van El CG, Baccolini V, Piko P, Cornel MC. Stakeholder Views on Active Cascade Screening for Familial Hypercholesterolemia. Healthcare (Basel) 2018; 6:E108. [PMID: 30200297 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare6030108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Revised: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), carriers profit from presymptomatic diagnosis and early treatment. Due to the autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance, first degree relatives of patients are at 50% risk. A program to identify healthy relatives at risk of premature cardiovascular problems, funded by the Netherlands government until 2014, raised questions on privacy and autonomy in view of the chosen active approach of family members. Several countries are building cascade screening programs inspired by Dutch experience, but meanwhile, the Netherlands’ screening program itself is in transition. Insight in stakeholders’ views on approaching family members is lacking. Literature and policy documents were studied, and stakeholders were interviewed on pros and cons of actively approaching healthy relatives. Sociotechnical analysis explored new roles and responsibilities, with uptake, privacy, autonomy, psychological burden, resources, and awareness as relevant themes. Stakeholders agree on the importance of early diagnosis and informing the family. Dutch healthcare typically focuses on cure, rather than prevention. Barriers to cascade screening are paying an own financial contribution, limited resources for informing relatives, and privacy regulation. To benefit from predictive, personalized, and preventive medicine, the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders in genetic testing as a preventive strategy, and informing family members, need to be carefully realigned.
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Holtkamp KCA, Mathijssen IB, Lakeman P, van Maarle MC, Dondorp WJ, Henneman L, Cornel MC. Factors for successful implementation of population-based expanded carrier screening: learning from existing initiatives. Eur J Public Health 2017; 27:372-377. [PMID: 27485720 PMCID: PMC5421354 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckw110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Carrier screening for autosomal recessive disorders aims to facilitate reproductive decision-making by identifying couples with a 1-in-4 risk in every pregnancy of having an affected child. Except for a few countries or regions, carrier screening is not widely offered and is mostly ancestry-based. Technological advances enable carrier screening for multiple diseases simultaneously allowing universal screening regardless of ancestry (population-based expanded carrier screening). It is important to study how this can be successfully implemented. This study therefore aims to identify critical factors involved in successful implementation, from a user perspective, by learning from already implemented initiatives. Methods: Factors associated with successful implementation were identified by: (i) a literature review and (ii) two case studies; studying experiences with carrier screening in two high-risk communities (a Dutch founder population and the Ashkenazi Jewish population), including a survey among community members. Results: Factors identified were familiarity with (specific) genetic diseases and its availability, high perceived benefits of screening (e.g. screening avoids much suffering), acceptance of reproductive options, perceived risk of being a carrier and low perceived social barriers (e.g. stigmatization). In contrast to the Jewish community, the initial demand for screening in the Dutch founder population did not entirely come from the community itself. However, the large social cohesion of the community facilitated the implementation process. Conclusion: To ensure successful implementation of population-based expanded carrier screening, efforts should be made to increase knowledge about genetic diseases, create awareness and address personal benefits of screening in a non-directive way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim C A Holtkamp
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section of Community Genetics and EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Inge B Mathijssen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Phillis Lakeman
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Merel C van Maarle
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wybo J Dondorp
- Department of Health, Ethics & Society, Research Institutes CAPHRI and GROW, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Lidewij Henneman
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section of Community Genetics and EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martina C Cornel
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section of Community Genetics and EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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11
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van Schendel RV, van El CG, Pajkrt E, Henneman L, Cornel MC. Implementing non-invasive prenatal testing for aneuploidy in a national healthcare system: global challenges and national solutions. BMC Health Serv Res 2017; 17:670. [PMID: 28927451 PMCID: PMC5605972 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-017-2618-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/13/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Since the introduction of non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) in 2011, mainly by commercial companies, a growing demand for NIPT from the public and healthcare professionals has been putting pressure on the healthcare systems of various countries. This study identifies the challenges of establishing a responsible implementation of NIPT for aneuploidy in prenatal healthcare, by looking at the Netherlands. Methods A mixed methods approach involving 13 stakeholder interviews, document analysis and (participatory) observations of the Dutch NIPT Consortium meetings were used. The Diffusion of Innovation Theory and a Network of Actors model were used to interpret the findings. Results Implementation of NIPT was facilitated by several factors. The set-up of a national NIPT Consortium enabled discussion and collaboration between stakeholders. Moreover, it led to the plan to offer NIPT through a nationwide research setting (TRIDENT studies), which created a learning phase for careful implementation. The Dutch legal context was perceived as a delaying factor, but eventually gave room for the parties involved to organise themselves and their practices. Conclusions This study shows that implementing advanced technologies with profound effects on prenatal care benefit from a learning phase that allows time to carefully evaluate the technical performance and women’s experiences and to enable public debate. Such a coordinated learning phase, involving all stakeholders, will stimulate the process of responsible and sustainable implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachèl V van Schendel
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section of Community Genetics, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, VU University Medical Center, P.O. Box 7057, 1007, MB, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carla G van El
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section of Community Genetics, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, VU University Medical Center, P.O. Box 7057, 1007, MB, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eva Pajkrt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fetal Medicine Unit, Academic Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lidewij Henneman
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section of Community Genetics, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, VU University Medical Center, P.O. Box 7057, 1007, MB, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Martina C Cornel
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section of Community Genetics, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, VU University Medical Center, P.O. Box 7057, 1007, MB, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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12
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Molster CM, Lister K, Metternick-Jones S, Baynam G, Clarke AJ, Straub V, Dawkins HJS, Laing N. Outcomes of an International Workshop on Preconception Expanded Carrier Screening: Some Considerations for Governments. Front Public Health 2017; 5:25. [PMID: 28286745 PMCID: PMC5323409 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2017.00025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Consideration of expanded carrier screening has become an emerging issue for governments. However, traditional criteria for decision-making regarding screening programs do not incorporate all the issues relevant to expanded carrier screening. Further, there is a lack of consistent guidance in the literature regarding the development of appropriate criteria for government assessment of expanded carrier screening. Given this, a workshop was held to identify key public policy issues related to preconception expanded carrier screening, which governments should consider when deciding whether to publicly fund such programs. Methods In June 2015, a satellite workshop was held at the European Society of Human Genetics Conference. It was structured around two design features: (1) the provision of information from a range of perspectives and (2) small group deliberations on the key issues that governments need to consider and the benefits, risks, and challenges of implementing publicly funded whole-population preconception carrier screening. Results Forty-one international experts attended the workshop. The deliberations centered primarily on the conditions to be tested and the elements of the screening program itself. Participants expected only severe conditions to be screened but were concerned about the lack of a consensus definition of “severe.” Issues raised regarding the screening program included the purpose, benefits, harms, target population, program acceptability, components of a program, and economic evaluation. Participants also made arguments for consideration of the accuracy of screening tests. Conclusion A wide range of issues require careful consideration by governments that want to assess expanded carrier screening. Traditional criteria for government decision-making regarding screening programs are not a “best fit” for expanded carrier screening and new models of decision-making with appropriate criteria are required. There is a need to define what a “severe” condition is, to build evidence regarding the reliability and accuracy of screening tests, to consider the equitable availability and downstream effects on and costs of follow-up interventions for those identified as carriers, and to explore the ways in which the components of a screening program would be impacted by unique features of expanded carrier screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caron M Molster
- Office of Population Health Genomics, Public Health Division, Department of Health Western Australia , Perth, WA , Australia
| | - Karla Lister
- Office of Population Health Genomics, Public Health Division, Department of Health Western Australia , Perth, WA , Australia
| | | | - Gareth Baynam
- Office of Population Health Genomics, Public Health Division, Department of Health Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia; Genetic Services WA, Perth, WA, Australia; School of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia; Institute for Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia; Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia; Western Australian Register of Developmental Anomalies, Perth, WA, Australia; Spatial Sciences, Department of Science and Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Angus John Clarke
- Division of Cancer and Genetics, School of Medicine, Cardiff University , Cardiff , UK
| | - Volker Straub
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Newcastle upon Tyne , Newcastle upon Tyne , UK
| | - Hugh J S Dawkins
- Office of Population Health Genomics, Public Health Division, Department of Health Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia; Centre for Comparative Genomics, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia; Centre for Population Health Research, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; School of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Nigel Laing
- Centre for Medical Research, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia; Neurogenetics Unit, Department of Diagnostic Genomics, PathWest Laboratory Medicine, Department of Health Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
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13
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Holtkamp KC, Vos EM, Rigter T, Lakeman P, Henneman L, Cornel MC. Stakeholder perspectives on the implementation of genetic carrier screening in a changing landscape. BMC Health Serv Res 2017; 17:146. [PMID: 28209157 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-017-2083-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In most countries, genetic carrier screening is neither offered, nor embedded in mainstream healthcare. Technological developments have triggered a two-fold transition in carrier screening: the expansion from screening one single disorder to many disorders simultaneously, and offering screening universally, regardless of ancestry. This study aims to identify general and population-specific barriers and needs reflected by stakeholders regarding the implementation of carrier screening in a changing landscape. Methods Seventeen semi-structured interviews were conducted with Dutch key stakeholders working in the practical and scientific field of carrier screening. The constellation approach was used to categorise barriers and needs into three levels: culture, structure and practice. Results Barriers on a cultural level include: undecidedness about the desirability of carrier screening, and a lack of priority of screening in mainstream healthcare. On a structural level barriers included: need for organisational structures in healthcare for embedding carrier screening, need for guidelines, financial structures, practical tools for overcoming challenges during counselling, and a need for training and education of both professionals and the public. A lack of demand for screening by the public, and a need for a division of responsibilities were barriers on a practical level. Conclusion The absence of a collective sense of urgency for genetic carrier screening, a lack of organisational structures, and uncertainty or even disagreement about the responsibilities seem to be important barriers in the implementation of carrier screening. Stakeholders therefore suggest that change agents should be formally acknowledged to strategically plan broadening of current initiatives and attune different stakeholders. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12913-017-2083-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Rigter T, Henneman L, Broerse JEW, Shepherd M, Blanco I, Kristoffersson U, Cornel MC. Developing a framework for implementation of genetic services: learning from examples of testing for monogenic forms of common diseases. J Community Genet 2014; 5:337-47. [PMID: 24895224 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-014-0189-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2014] [Accepted: 05/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetics in health care is shifting, and responsibilities of genetic and nongenetic specialists are changing, requiring new guidance on how to adapt health care to advances in genetic services. This paper explores facilitators and barriers in the process of implementation of innovations in genetic health care. Furthermore, lessons learnt for optimizing development of new genetic services are summarized. Barriers and facilitators in transition processes were identified using mixed methods, including an online open-ended questionnaire among professionals and an international expert meeting. A multi-case study approach was used to explore recent experiences with innovations in genetic services in different phases of implementation. Barriers encountered in transitions in genetic service provision include the following: lack of genetic knowledge and skills among nongenetic health care providers, resistance to new divisions of responsibilities, and a need for more close collaboration and communication between geneticists and nongeneticists. Facilitating factors include the following: statutory registration of genetic specialists, availability of essential staff and equipment, and existence of registries and guidelines. Other challenges are experienced in the establishment of the appropriate legal and financial structures. A set of points to consider for genetic innovation processes is proposed, addressing, e.g., transition management and cooperation and communication strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessel Rigter
- Department of Clinical Genetics, EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center (BS7, D450), PO Box 7057, 1007, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Affiliation(s)
- John Massie
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia; Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Carlo Castellani
- Cystic Fibrosis Centre, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy
| | - Wayne W Grody
- Departments of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Pediatrics, and Human Genetics, UCLA School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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16
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Jans SMPJ, de Jonge A, Henneman L, Cornel MC, Lagro-Janssen ALM. Attitudes of general practitioners and midwives towards ethnicity-based haemoglobinopathy-carrier screening. Eur J Hum Genet 2012; 20:1112-7. [PMID: 22549405 PMCID: PMC3476713 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2012.72] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2011] [Revised: 03/14/2012] [Accepted: 03/15/2012] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Haemoglobinopathies (HbP) are severe autosomal recessive disorders with high prevalence among certain ethnic groups. World Health Organisation (WHO) advises implementing screening programmes for risk groups. Research in the Netherlands has shown that general practitioners and midwives do not perceive ethnicity as a risk factor for HbP. Moreover, registration of ethnicity is a controversial societal issue, which may complicate the introduction of a national preconception or antenatal carrier screening programme. This study investigates attitudes, intention and behaviour of general practitioners and midwives towards ethnicity-based HbP-carrier screening in general. A structured questionnaire based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour was sent by mail to a random selection of 2100 general practitioners and 1800 primary care midwives. Response was 35% (midwives 44.2%; GPs 27.6%). Although 45% of respondents thought that offering a carrier test on the basis of ethnicity alone should become national policy, it is currently not carried out. The main factor explaining lack of intention towards ethnicity-based HbP-carrier screening was subjective norm, the perception that their peers do not think they should offer screening (52.2% variance explained). If ethnicity-based HbP-carrier screening would become national policy, most professionals report that they would carry this out. Most respondents favoured ethnicity registration for health purposes. As most practitioners look for role models among peers, debate among general practitioners and midwives should be encouraged when new policy is to be developed, articulating the voices of colleagues who already actively offer HbP-carrier screening. Moreover, primary care professionals and professional organisations need support of policy at national level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suze M P J Jans
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Section of Community Genetics, EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Cornel MC, Gille JJP, Loeber JG, Vernooij-van Langen AMM, Dankert-Roelse J, Bolhuis PA. Improving test properties for neonatal cystic fibrosis screening in the Netherlands before the nationwide start by May 1st 2011. J Inherit Metab Dis 2012; 35:635-40. [PMID: 22302635 PMCID: PMC3388251 DOI: 10.1007/s10545-012-9452-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2011] [Revised: 12/17/2011] [Accepted: 01/10/2012] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
When new technical possibilities arise in health care, often attunement is needed between different actors from the perspectives of research, health care providers, patients, ethics and policy. For cystic fibrosis (CF) such a process of attunement in the Netherlands started in a committee of the Health Council on neonatal screening in 2005. In the balancing of pros and cons according to Wilson and Jungner criteria, the advantages for the CF patient were considered clear, even though CF remains a severe health problem with treatment. Nevertheless, screening was not started then, mainly since the specificity of the tests available at that time was considered too low. Many healthy infants would have been referred for sweat testing and much uncertainty would arise in their parents. Also the limited sensitivity for immigrants and the detection of less severe phenotypes and carriers were considered problematic. The Health Council recommended a pilot screening project which was subsequently performed in some provinces, leading to a 4-step protocol: IRT, PAP, screening for a CFTR mutation panel, and sequencing of the CFTR gene. This would lead to the identification of 23 cases of classical CF, two infants with less severe forms and 12 carriers per year in the Netherlands. Thus many CF patients can be diagnosed early, while limiting the number of referrals, the number of infants with less severe forms diagnosed and the number of carriers identified. Technical solutions were found to limit the ethical problems. A nationwide program using this four step protocol started by 1 May 2011.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina C Cornel
- Clinical Genetics, VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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18
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Holzgreve W, Pietrzik K, Koletzko B, Eckmann-Scholz C. Adding folate to the contraceptive pill: a new concept for the prevention of neural tube defects. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2012; 25:1529-36. [PMID: 22272814 DOI: 10.3109/14767058.2011.648672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Although it is proven for a long time that folic acid supplementation in the periconceptional period can prevent neural tube defects (NTDs) effectively, all measures taken so far including food fortification and awareness campaigns so far had only limited success. Since more than 50% of the pregnant women in Europe get pregnant after they have used oral contraceptives (OCs) before, OCs are an ideal vehicle to increase not only the awareness for periconceptional folate application, but they can also help to bridge the gap between the recognition of a pregnancy and closure of the neural tube which is before day 26. In order to reach a truly protective folate level at the critical time period during pregnancy, now OCs are available which contain metafolin. The availability of this innovative type of OC will significantly reduce the number of NTDs.
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Jans SMPJ, van El CG, Houwaart ES, Westerman MJ, Janssens RJPA, Lagro-Janssen ALM, Plass AMC, Cornel MC. A case study of haemoglobinopathy screening in the Netherlands: witnessing the past, lessons for the future. Ethn Health 2012; 17:217-39. [PMID: 21819310 PMCID: PMC3396381 DOI: 10.1080/13557858.2011.604126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2010] [Revised: 07/06/2011] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In 2007 neonatal screening (NNS) was expanded to include screening for sickle cell disease (SCD) and beta-thalassaemia. Up until that year no formal recommendations for haemoglobinopathy (carrier) screening existed in the Netherlands. Although it has been subject to debate in the past, preconceptional and prenatal haemoglobinopathy carrier screening are not part of routine healthcare in the Netherlands. This study aimed to explore the decision-making process of the past: why was the introduction of a screening programme for haemoglobinopathy considered to be untimely, and did ethnicity play a role given the history in other countries surrounding the introduction of haemoglobinopathy screening? DESIGN A witness seminar was organised, inviting key figures to discuss the decision-making process concerning haemoglobinopathy screening in the Netherlands, thereby adding new perspectives on past events. The transcript was content-analysed. RESULTS The subject of haemoglobinopathy screening first appeared in the 1970s. As opposed to a long history of neglect of African-American health in the United States, the heritage of the Second World War influenced the decision-making process in the Netherlands. As a consequence, registration of ethnicity surfaced as an impeding factor. However, overall, official Dutch screening policy was restrained regarding reproductive issues caused by fear of eugenics. In the 1990s haemoglobinopathy screening was found to be 'not opportune' due to low prevalence, lack of knowledge and fear of stigmatisation. Currently the registration of ethnicity remains on the political agenda, but still proves to be a sensitive subject. DISCUSSION Carrier screening in general never appeared high on the policy agenda. Registration of ethnicity remains sensitive caused by the current political climate. Complexities related to carrier screening are a challenge in Dutch healthcare. Whether carrier screening will be considered a valuable complementary strategy in the Netherlands, depends partly on participation of representatives of high-risk groups in policy making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suze M P J Jans
- Clinical Genetics, Section Community Genetics, EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Cornel MC, van El CG, Dondorp WJ. The promises of genomic screening: building a governance infrastructure. Special issue: genetics and democracy. J Community Genet 2012; 3:73-7. [PMID: 22109905 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-011-0056-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2011] [Accepted: 06/23/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
New screening possibilities become available at a high rate, both useful and unsound possibilities. All screening programmes do harm, and only few have more advantages than disadvantages at reasonable cost. Horizon scanning is needed to identify those few possibilities with more pros than cons. Attunement is needed between actors involved: scientists developing new high-throughput screening techniques and treatment, health care workers, patients and consumers and governmental agencies. The product of a process of attunement may be a quality mark as a norm for professional conduct, rather than legal measures, as the field is moving fast. As actors may have varying perspectives, a governance structure is needed to develop an agenda that is agreed upon by all or most actors involved. A standing committee might oversee the evaluation of benefits and disadvantages in an integrated approach, taking evidence, economics and ethics into account. A proactive role of governmental agencies is needed to facilitate agenda setting and attunement. Policy making has to be transparent and open to stakeholder engagement.
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Becker F, van El CG, Ibarreta D, Zika E, Hogarth S, Borry P, Cambon-Thomsen A, Cassiman JJ, Evers-Kiebooms G, Hodgson S, Janssens ACJW, Kaariainen H, Krawczak M, Kristoffersson U, Lubinski J, Patch C, Penchaszadeh VB, Read A, Rogowski W, Sequeiros J, Tranebjaerg L, van Langen IM, Wallace H, Zimmern R, Schmidtke J, Cornel MC. Genetic testing and common disorders in a public health framework: how to assess relevance and possibilities. Background Document to the ESHG recommendations on genetic testing and common disorders. Eur J Hum Genet 2011; 19 Suppl 1:S6-44. [PMID: 21412252 PMCID: PMC3327518 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2010.249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Frauke Becker
- Hannover Medical School, Department of Human Genetics, Hannover, Germany
| | - Carla G van El
- Department of Clinical Genetics and EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dolores Ibarreta
- IPTS Institute for Prospective Technological Studies, Joint Research Centre, European Commission, Seville, Spain
| | - Eleni Zika
- IPTS Institute for Prospective Technological Studies, Joint Research Centre, European Commission, Seville, Spain
| | - Stuart Hogarth
- Department of Social Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Pascal Borry
- Department of Clinical Genetics and EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Medical Humanities and EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anne Cambon-Thomsen
- Inserm, U 558, Department of Epidemiology, Health Economics and Public Health, University Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France
| | | | - Gerry Evers-Kiebooms
- Psychosocial Genetics Unit University Hospitals, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Shirley Hodgson
- Department of Clinical Genetics, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - A Cécile J W Janssens
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Michael Krawczak
- Institute of Medical Informatics and Statistics, Christian-Albrechts-Universität, Kiel, Germany
| | | | - Jan Lubinski
- Department of Genetics and Pathology, International Hereditary Cancer Center, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | | | | | - Andrew Read
- Division of Human Development, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Wolf Rogowski
- Helmholtz Center Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health (GmbH), Neuherberg, Germany
- Institute and Outpatient Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Clinical Center, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich, Germany
| | - Jorge Sequeiros
- IBMC – Institute for Molecular and Cell Biology, and ICBAS, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Lisbeth Tranebjaerg
- Department of Audiology, H:S Bispebjerg Hospital and Wilhelm Johannsen Centre of Functional Genomics, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Irene M van Langen
- Department of Genetics, University Medical Center Groningen and University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Helen Wallace
- GeneWatch UK, The Mill House, Tideswell, Derbyshire, UK
| | - Ron Zimmern
- PHG Foundation, Worts Causeway, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jörg Schmidtke
- Hannover Medical School, Department of Human Genetics, Hannover, Germany
| | - Martina C Cornel
- Department of Clinical Genetics and EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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van der Zee B, de Beaufort I, Temel S, de Wert G, Denktas S, Steegers E. Preconception care: An essential preventive strategy to improve children's and women's health. J Public Health Policy 2011; 32:367-79. [DOI: 10.1057/jphp.2011.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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23
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Weinreich SS, de Lange-de Klerk ES, Rijmen F, Cornel MC, de Kinderen M, Plass AMC. Raising awareness of carrier testing for hereditary haemoglobinopathies in high-risk ethnic groups in the Netherlands: a pilot study among the general public and primary care providers. BMC Public Health 2009; 9:338. [PMID: 19754950 PMCID: PMC2754459 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-9-338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2009] [Accepted: 09/15/2009] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the Netherlands no formal recommendations exist concerning preconceptional or antenatal testing for carriership of hereditary haemoglobinopathies. Those at highest risk may be unaware of the possibility of carrier screening. While universal newborn screening has recently been introduced, neither preconceptional nor antenatal carrier testing is routinely offered by health care services to the general public. A municipal health service and a foundation for public information on medical genetics undertook a pilot project with the aim of increasing knowledge and encouraging informed choice. Two groups were targeted: members of the public from ethnic groups at increased risk, and primary health care providers. This study examines the effectiveness of culturally specific 'infotainment' to inform high-risk ethnic groups about their increased risk for haemoglobinopathies. In addition, the study explores attitudes and intentions of primary care providers towards haemoglobinopathy carrier testing of their patients from high-risk ethnic groups. METHODS Informational sessions tailored to the public or professionals were organised in Amsterdam, and evaluated for their effect. Psychological parameters were measured using structured questionnaires based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour. RESULTS The pre-test/post-test questionnaire showed that members of the public gained understanding of inheritance and carriership of haemoglobinopathies from the "infotainment" session (p < 0.01). Perceived behavioural control, i.e. the feeling that they could actually get tested if they wanted to, increased in the targeted age group of 18-45 years (N = 41; p < 0.05). 191 surveys were collected from general practitioners or midwives. Their attitude towards the education programme for high-risk ethnic groups was positive, yet they did not show strong intention to effectuate carrier testing of their patients on the basis of ethnicity. The main factor which explained their (lack of) intention was social norm, i.e. their perception of negative peer opinion (41% variance explained). The majority of primary health care providers felt that policy change was unnecessary. CONCLUSION The "infotainment" programme may have a positive effect on people from high-risk groups, but informed general practitioners and midwives were reluctant to facilitate their patients' getting tested. Additional initiatives are needed to motivate primary care providers to facilitate haemoglobinopathy carrier testing for their patients from high-risk backgrounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie S Weinreich
- VU University Medical Center, Department of Clinical Genetics, Community Genetics, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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Potter BK, Avard D, Entwistle V, Kennedy C, Chakraborty P, McGuire M, Wilson BJ. Ethical, legal, and social issues in health technology assessment for prenatal/preconceptional and newborn screening: a workshop report. Public Health Genomics 2008; 12:4-10. [PMID: 19023190 PMCID: PMC2790790 DOI: 10.1159/000153430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2008] [Accepted: 05/14/2008] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Prenatal/preconceptional and newborn screening programs have been a focus of recent policy debates that have included attention to ethical, legal, and social issues (ELSIs). In parallel, there has been an ongoing discussion about whether and how ELSIs may be addressed in health technology assessment (HTA). We conducted a knowledge synthesis study to explore both guidance and current practice regarding the consideration of ELSIs in HTA for prenatal/preconceptional and newborn screening. As the concluding activity for this project, we held a Canadian workshop to discuss the issues with a diverse group of stakeholders. Based on key workshop themes integrated with our study results, we suggest that population-based genetic screening programs may present particular types of ELSIs and that a public health ethics perspective is potentially highly relevant when considering them. We also suggest that approaches to addressing ELSIs in HTA for prenatal/preconceptional and newborn screening may need to be flexible enough to respond to diversity in HTA organizations, cultural values, stakeholder communities, and contextual factors. Finally, we highlight a need for transparency in the way that HTA producers move from evidence to conclusions and the ways in which screening policy decisions are made.
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Affiliation(s)
- B K Potter
- Department of Epidemiology & Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ont. K1H 8M5, Canada.
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