A1 Understand health issues page 29

Question 1

What is pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), and why is it used?

Answer 1

Pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) is used to reduce the risk of genetic diseases in children by testing embryos for specific genetic disorders before implantation in the womb.

Question 2

How does pre-implantation genetic testing work?

Answer 2

PGD involves removing a cell from an eight-cell stage embryo, extracting its DNA, and testing it for specific alleles linked to genetic disorders. Only healthy embryos are implanted.

Question 3

Why can pre-implantation genetic diagnosis only be performed using IVF?

Answer 3

PGD can only be performed using IVF because testing must be done before the embryo is implanted in the uterus, which requires fertilisation outside the body.

Question 4

What are the criteria for someone to qualify for pre-implantation genetic diagnosis in the UK?

Answer 4

In the UK, someone qualifies for PGD if they have a strong family history of a genetic disorder, a child with a genetic disorder, a history of terminated pregnancies for genetic reasons, or a family history of chromosome problems.

Question 5

What are some limitations of pre-implantation genetic testing?

Answer 5

PGD is expensive, involves IVF, and can only screen for one specific genetic condition at a time. It is limited to about 400 conditions and may exclude some people.

Question 6

What are some health risks and challenges associated with IVF?

Answer 6

IVF can be time-consuming, stressful, and carries health risks for the mother. It is also not always successful, adding to the emotional and financial strain.