Genetic test will detect disease in unborn child

Prospective parents will be able to screen embryos for almost any known genetic disease using a revolutionary “universal test” developed by British scientists. The £1,500 test will allow couples at risk of passing on gene defects to conceive healthy children using IVF treatment. Unlike current tests, it takes just weeks from start to finish and is suitable for couples at risk of almost any condition. The “genetic MoT” will transform the range of inherited disorders that can be detected in embryos and the speed and accuracy of such tests. At present only 2 per cent of the 15,000 known genetic conditions can be identified in this way. It involves creating embryos by IVF and removing a single cell from each when they are two days old. The cells are tested using a technique known as karyomapping before a healthy embryo is implanted. Read the rest of the story here.

Note from Michelle at Baptists for Life, Grand Rapids, MI:
Two-day-old embryo = unborn child. Correct! But why say this new test "allows couples to conceive healthy children" when conception has already occurred? Actually, the new test detects defects in already-conceived children and allows technicians to discard faulty ones. This is not a cure!

Note: This past month I have had a couple of situations where the health of an unborn baby has come into question. We have been able to educate and inform the parents about getting a second opinion before rushing into an abortion decision. What a blessing to be able to let people know about an organization called Prenatal Partners for Life, a group of compassionate parents with special needs children, as well as medical professionals, legal professionals and clergy, who offer support, encouragement, and information to expectant or new parents facing an adverse diagnosis relating to their preborn or newborn.
Check out www.prenatalpartnersforlife.com for more information or to become involved.