Related Experiment Videos
Prenatal diagnosis in Sweden: organisation and current issues
1Department of Clinical Genetics, Karolinska Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
European Journal of Human Genetics : EJHG
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Prenatal diagnosis in Sweden, established in the 1970s, offers genetic testing for cytogenetic and molecular disorders. Advanced maternal age is the primary reason for chromosome analysis via amniocentesis.
Area of Science:
- Medical Genetics
- Public Health
- Prenatal Screening
Background:
- Invasive prenatal diagnosis has been a part of Swedish public healthcare since the early 1970s.
- The service is tax-funded, with patients incurring only a nominal consultation fee.
- Genetic testing covers a wide spectrum of cytogenetic and molecular disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the landscape of invasive prenatal diagnosis in Sweden.
- To outline the scope of genetic analyses offered.
- To identify the primary indications for prenatal testing.
Main Methods:
- Genetic analyses including cytogenetic and molecular testing.
- Amniocentesis as the predominant method for sample collection.
- Screening performed at university-affiliated and county hospitals.
Main Results:
- Approximately 6% of all newborns undergo cytogenetic screening during pregnancy.
- About 90% of genetic analyses are conducted post-amniocentesis.
- Advanced maternal age is the leading indication for chromosome analysis.
Conclusions:
- Invasive prenatal diagnosis is a well-integrated and accessible public health service in Sweden.
- The service effectively screens for various genetic disorders.
- Advanced maternal age drives the utilization of prenatal chromosome analysis.