ACMG Releases Statement on Access to Reproductive Options After Prenatal Diagnosis

BETHESDA, Md., July 19, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) is concerned with the enactment of laws in some states that prevent or restrict access to termination of pregnancy after prenatal diagnosis of genetic disorders or congenital anomalies. The practice of medical genetics is predicated on the principle of providing patients with accurate information on the genetic disorder or congenital anomaly that affects them, a member of their family, or an unborn fetus, and then discussing the management options that are available. The ACMG believes strongly that a balanced discussion of options, including termination of pregnancy, should be available to pregnant couples where their fetus has been diagnosed with a genetic disorder or congenital anomaly. This is accomplished on a case-by-case basis via discussions between the patient's care provider, a medical geneticist/genetic counselor, and the pregnant couple, with the goal of serving the medical needs of the couple to choose a safe and personally acceptable management plan.  Access to safe and legal termination of pregnancy for genetic disorders or congenital anomalies that may be diagnosed prenatally is a critically important option for some pregnant couples and ACMG strongly opposes legislation that places limits on this access.

About the ACMG

Founded in 1991, the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (www.acmg.net) advances the practice of medical genetics and genomics by providing education, resources and a voice for more than 1600 biochemical, clinical, cytogenetic, medical and molecular geneticists, genetic counselors and other healthcare professionals committed to the practice of medical genetics. ACMG's activities include the development of laboratory and practice standards and guidelines, advocating for quality genetic services in healthcare and in public health, and promoting the development of methods to diagnose, treat and prevent genetic disease. ACMG's website (www.acmg.net) offers a variety of resources including Policy Statements, Practice Guidelines, Educational Resources, and a Find a Geneticist tool. The educational and public health programs of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics are dependent upon charitable gifts from corporations, foundations, and individuals.

SOURCE American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics