When a couple is undergoing a genetic test and subsequently informed of the possibility that their future child has a genetic alteration, even if it is curable, the decision to end the pregnancy may appear. This fact shows perhaps a defect in genetic controls, can a pregnancy be terminated even though the genetic disease of which the future baby is a carrier can be cured?
A team of researchers from the Shaare Zedek Medical Center (Jerusalem) has been the first to conduct a study that shows the reactions of couples to the news of a genetic problem in the fetus. Data were taken of pregnancies and fetuses that presented Gaucher's disease in any of its forms from 10 Israeli genetic centers. A total of 16 couples had conceived a baby who presented this genetic problem, before the news, four couples decided to end the pregnancy, including two other couples to whom the scientists indicated the low incidence of the disease and the possibility of treatment. The conclusion leaves no doubt, in statistical terms Up to 66% of fetuses who have a genetic problem are aborted.
Perhaps the genetic action should be reconsidered, given a severe disability that may affect the baby, abortion is not so questioned by scientists, however, it is questioned that a fetus with a treatable disease should be aborted.
The main person responsible for the study, Dr. Ephrat Levy-Lahad, a geneticist at the center that we have mentioned before, shows serious doubts in the conduct of genetic tests in order to detect diseases that are not serious. The truth is that we understand it, there is a moral burden, they can be indirectly responsible for the end of a life that could develop perfectly and in full power with the proper treatment.
The solution proposed by the study members is to add genetic counseling to professionals who are responsible for properly informing future parents in order to avoid unnecessary abortions.
