Attitude towards pre-implantation genetic diagnosis for hereditary cancer

Fam Cancer. 2009;8(4):457-64. doi: 10.1007/s10689-009-9265-5. Epub 2009 Jul 30.

Abstract

The use of pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) for hereditary cancer is subject to on-going debate, particularly among professionals. This study evaluates the attitude towards PGD and attitude-associated characteristics of those concerned: family members with a hereditary cancer predisposition. Forty-eight Von Hippel-Lindau and 18 Li-Fraumeni Syndrome families were identified via the 9 family cancer clinics in the Netherlands. In total, 216 high risk family members and partners were approached, of whom 179 (83%) completed a self-report questionnaire. Of the high risk family members, 35% expressed a positive attitude towards PGD. Those with a current desire to have children were significantly more likely to have a positive attitude: 48% would consider the use of PGD. No other sociodemographic, medical or psychosocial variables were associated significantly with a positive attitude. The most frequently reported advantage of PGD is the avoidance of a possible pregnancy termination. Uncertainty about late effects was the most frequently reported disadvantage. These results indicate that approximately half of those contemplating a future pregnancy would consider the use of PGD. The actual uptake, however, is expected to be lower. There is no indication that psychosocial factors affect interest in PGD.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Female
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease*
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Humans
  • Li-Fraumeni Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Li-Fraumeni Syndrome / genetics
  • Li-Fraumeni Syndrome / psychology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pregnancy
  • Preimplantation Diagnosis / psychology*
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Young Adult
  • von Hippel-Lindau Disease / diagnosis*
  • von Hippel-Lindau Disease / genetics
  • von Hippel-Lindau Disease / psychology