Question

Explain the role of a genetic counsellor.

Answer 1

The role of a genetic counsellor is to provide advice and guidance on genetic problems, especially for couples who believe there may be a risk of having a child with a congenital disease. Genetic counselling involves the use of various biochemical, statistical, and physiological techniques to determine the presence of genetic disorders. The genetic counsellor helps such couples by identifying genetic defects, often through procedures like amniocentesis, and advising them accordingly. This service is particularly recommended for individuals or couples who have a birth defect or genetic disorder, plan to have children at an older age, have a family history of genetic disorders, are considering consanguineous marriage, have experienced spontaneous abortions, or belong to ethnic groups with known genetic diseases.