At least once a week a caller tells her so. Interest in genetic counseling has been heightened as more people become aware of genetics. That trend is expected to continue as the year 2003 draws near. That's when scientists predict they will know the location of all the genes in the human body, according to Debra Collins, genetic counselor at the University of Kansas Medical Center. It's appealing because of the technology and people combination.
People are more aware of genetics and potential genetic involvement in their diagnosis.
They are interested in knowing if there is more that can be done pre-symptomatic so they can get preventative care. Women with a history of multiple miscarriages, stillbirths or early infant deaths and those 34 years old and older who are pregnant or planning a pregnancy may seek help from a genetic counselor. It's dealing with complex molecular information and conveying it to people in terms they can understand to help them make the best decision for them. Genetic counselors interpret medical jargon into layman's terms so a person or family can get practical information about genetic risk. They provide information and supportive counseling, serve as patient advocates and refer families to support services.