Question

Gerard is a genetic counselor. Which statement should he make to a couple that has a child with cystic fibrosis and is considering another pregnancy? "The odds of your next child having the disease are 1 in 4." "With your family history, you should definitely terminate this pregnancy." "The odds of your next child having the disease are 1 in 2." "Don't worry about your odds. Today cystic fibrosis is easily controlled with medication."

Answer 1

Answer: The odds of your next child having the disease are 1 in 4.

Explanation:

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an incredibly life-shortening disease, though some individuals live to their thirties. The counsellor should ensure to educate the couple on the challenges of managing a child with cystic fibrosis. There are tests they can take during the first trimester or second trimesters of pregnancy to find out if a fetus will have the illness. The counselor should let the couple know that their decision to have a test and to go forward with any pregnancy is up to them.