CF carrier testing in a high risk population: anxiety, risk perceptions, and reproductive plans of carrier by "non-carrier" couples.
OBJECTIVE
The risk perceptions, psychological status and reproductive plans of 52 carrier by "noncarrier" (mutation screen negative) couples is the subject of this report.


METHODS
Cystic fibrosis (CF) carrier testing was offered to relatives of individuals with CF.


RESULTS
In this population testing was not associated with any significant adverse psychological effects, reproductive uncertainty, or inaccurate risk perceptions.


CONCLUSIONS
The results of this study have important implications in light of the recent NIH CF Consensus Panel recommendations that CF carrier testing be offered to all high risk adults and all couples planning a pregnancy or seeking prenatal testing.
Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, 27402-6174, USA.
N P
NP
Callanan
B J
BJ
Cheuvront
J R
JR
Sorenson
D000328:Adult; D003550:Cystic Fibrosis / Q000235:genetics* / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006580:Genetic Carrier Screening; D005817:Genetic Counseling; D005820:Genetic Testing / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D012098:Reproduction; D012307:Risk Factors