CF carrier testing in a high risk population: anxiety, risk perceptions, and reproductive plans of carrier by "non-carrier" couples.

Abstract

The risk perceptions, psychological status and reproductive plans of 52 carrier by "noncarrier" (mutation screen negative) couples is the subject of this report. Cystic fibrosis (CF) carrier testing was offered to relatives of individuals with CF. In this population testing was not associated with any significant adverse psychological effects, reproductive uncertainty, or inaccurate risk perceptions. 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.