title: Midwives' approach to genetic diseases and genetic counseling in Denizli, Turkey.
abstract: The purpose of this study was to evaluate Denizli midwives' self-reported knowledge of genetic diseases and genetic counseling. Data was collected on forms that obtained information about midwives approaches to basic genetics, genetic disorders, and genetic counseling (response rate = 70.1%). The highest response rate of midwives describing themselves as "knowledgeable" about basic genetic information was for mitosis and meiosis with 4.8%, about genetic disorders was for phenylketonuria with 61.1%, and about genetic counseling was for recommending ultrasonography during pregnancy with 98.1%. The source for basic genetics information for 56.4% of participants was in their school level classes. None of the midwives felt that they had sufficient knowledge about genetic counseling or screening and 76.4% would like to attend an educational course. Even though the midwives have recognized their knowledge deficit they occasionally give genetic counseling. As a result of this study a genetics course is planned for midwives so they can actively participate in the prevention and early diagnosis of genetic diseases.
authors: Department of Medical Biology, Pamukkale University Medical Faculty, 20020, Denizli, Turkey. tomatir@pamukkale.edu.tr
authors: Ayşe Gaye
authors: AG
authors: Tomatir
authors: Aysun
authors: A
authors: Ozşahin
authors: Hülya Cetin
authors: HC
authors: Sorkun
authors: Huriye
authors: H
authors: Demirhan
authors: Beyza
authors: B
authors: Akdağ