New guidelines for UK genetic testing

The UK's Advisory Committee on Genetic Testing (ACGT) sent out guidelines on prenatal testing to health authorities across the country this week. The recommendations say that a range of genetic tests should be made available to more pregnant women. A spokesman for the Department of Health said that they wanted all health authorities to have the same standards and procedures, so all patients get a fair and equal treatment.

The document says that pregnant women with a family history of a genetic condition, and ethnic groups more susceptible to particular condition should be offered prenatal testing as a matter of course. It also stresses that testing for rare disorders should be organised nationally, to avoid regional variation in service provision. It goes on to say: 'Where a potential abnormality is identified, there is a need for urgent detailed counselling about options available.' The recommendations have been criticised by anti-abortion campaigners, who have accused the government of encouraging parents to want 'designer babies'.

The report concludes that a national policy is essential to keep up with the pace of scientific progress.