Attitudes to predictive DNA testing in familial adenomatous polyposis

Abstract

Attitudes to predictive DNA testing for familial adenomatous polyposis were documented in 62 affected adults. Patient views on prenatal testing and termination of pregnancy for this disorder were sought, as were opinions on the most suitable age to offer predictive testing for at risk children and the most appropriate age to begin screening. While 15 (24%) of those questioned stated that they would proceed to termination of pregnancy if a prenatal test indicated that the unborn baby was affected, in clinical practice no one has yet requested this option. Six (10%) people who had refrained from having children for fear of passing on the polyposis gene felt that the arrival of prenatal testing would enable them to consider planning a family. The majority of patients (93%) said they would like their children tested by DNA analysis at birth or in infancy, but felt that 10 to 12 years was the most appropriate time to discuss the diagnosis with the child.