An interactive computer program can effectively educate potential users of cystic fibrosis carrier tests

Area of Science:

• Medical Genetics
• Genetic Counseling
• Health Informatics

Background:

• Growing demand for cystic fibrosis (CF) carrier testing strains genetic counselor availability.
• Standard face-to-face genetic counseling may not scale to meet increasing demand.
• Need for efficient educational tools for CF genetic testing and transmission.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate an interactive computer (IC) program as an educational tool for CF carrier testing.
• To compare the effectiveness of the IC program against traditional genetic counseling.
• To assess knowledge acquisition regarding CF genetics and carrier testing.

Main Methods:

• A comparative trial involving 44 individuals undergoing assisted reproduction.
• Random assignment to either standard genetic counseling or the IC program.
• Pre- and post-intervention knowledge assessment using a multiple-choice questionnaire.

Main Results:

• Both groups started with similar baseline knowledge (45-47% correct).
• Both groups demonstrated significant and comparable knowledge increases post-intervention (84-85% correct).
• The IC program proved as effective as traditional counseling in educating individuals.

Conclusions:

• An interactive computer program can successfully educate individuals about cystic fibrosis genetic transmission and carrier testing.
• This technology offers a scalable solution to meet the rising demand for CF genetic testing.
• The IC program is a viable alternative or supplement to traditional genetic counseling.