Genetic Counselling can be defined as the process of advising individuals and families affected by or at risk of genetic disorders to help them understand and adapt to the medical, psychological and familial implications of genetic contributions to disease. Genetic counseling gives advice and guidance to individuals and families who are at risk or affected by genetic disorders. Genetic counselors are trained professionals who can educate individuals regarding prognosis, prevention, treatment options, prenatal diagnosis, inheritance risk and availability of screening tests
Genetic counselling is a significant aspect of prevention. It can help people take control of their health by providing them with the correct information about the genetic condition. There are three vital components of any genetic counselling session:
- The right to autonomy of every individual and couple
- Their right to complete information
- The highest standard of confidentiality Â
PTGD has trained genetic counsellors in all the 9 regional centers. Non directive counselling is provided in accordance with moral, ethical and religious values. The individual or the couple has to make a decision that is likely to be influenced by many factors including personal experience, religion, social factors etc. Thus, they need to be equipped with the correct information to make a decision that they have to live with the rest of their lives. Consequently, the best possible solution is offered to at risk individuals or couples while strictly maintaining clients’ confidentiality.