Genetics and genetic counseling: Practices and opinions of primary care physicians in Turkey

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to assess the educational needs of physicians relating to genetics and genetic counseling in the Denizli region of Turkey. METHODS: Data were collected by questionnaire about physicians' approaches to genetics and genetic counseling. RESULTS: A total of 60 (60.0%) of 100 physicians working in Denizli province returned a questionnaire. Physicians described "their most knowledgeable subjects" in basic genetic information as chromosome abnormalities (41.8%), in genetic disorders as xeroderma pigmentosum (80.0%), and in genetic counseling as directing the parents of and couples with a risk for having a child affected by a genetic disease to an expert or a genetic counseling center (94.8%). Only 20.7% knew the ethical regulations and techniques related to genetic counseling. Physicians thought that they did not have sufficient knowledge about genetics or genetic counseling, and 83.9% would like to attend an educational course. CONCLUSIONS: As a result of this study, a genetics course is planned for physicians so they can actively participate in the prevention and early diagnosis of genetic diseases. ©2007The American College of Medical Genetics

Deficiency of knowledge of genetics and genetic tests among general practitioners, gynecologists, and pediatricians: A global problem

). The 5th percentile of GPs, GYNs, and PEDs was at approximately 40%, 52% and 62% correct answers, respectively. There was a specific lack of knowledge about DNA testing. In addition to specialty, important factors positively associated with the knowledge scores of nongeneticists are more recent graduation, having taken an elective course in genetics, and providing genetic counseling in their own practice. CONCLUSION:: The overall knowledge levels of genetics in many nongeneticist health care providers show clear deficiencies. This is in line with reports from other countries, showing that these deficiencies are a global proble

The need to develop an evidence base for genetic counselling in Europe

We write regarding the need for genetic counselling research across Europe. At risk relatives of the 30 million Europeans affected by genetic conditions may be neither recognised nor managed appropriately by health professionals.1 This contravenes the EU’s aim to create safe, efficient, patient-centred and sustainable health-care systems.2 For service development, a firm evidence base is needed. Areas where evidence is lacking include service provision, service quality and genetic counselling process