GENETIC COUNSELING Meaning and
Definition
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Genetic counseling is a professional healthcare service that provides information, guidance, and support to individuals or families who may be at risk of inheriting or passing on a genetic disorder or condition. It incorporates medical and genetic knowledge to assist individuals in understanding their genetic risks and making informed decisions regarding family planning, treatment options, and long-term management of genetic conditions.
The primary goal of genetic counseling is to help individuals and families understand the complex genetic factors that contribute to their health and that of their offspring. Genetic counselors are specialized healthcare professionals who have expertise in genetics and counseling techniques. They work closely with individuals, families, and their healthcare providers to assess and interpret complex family medical histories, educate about genetic inheritance patterns, and discuss the implications of genetic testing.
During a genetic counseling session, the counselor gathers relevant family and medical history information, evaluates the risk of a genetic condition or birth defect, and explains the available testing options. They provide emotional support, address concerns and questions, and communicate information about diagnosis, prognosis, management, and treatment options. Genetic counselors also assist in coordinating genetic testing, interpreting results, and helping patients make informed decisions.
In summary, genetic counseling is a specialized healthcare service that combines medical genetics and counseling to help individuals and families understand and manage the genetic aspects of their health. By providing information, support, and guidance, genetic counselors empower individuals to make informed decisions regarding their reproductive options and medical management.
Common Misspellings for GENETIC COUNSELING
- fenetic counseling
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- benetic counseling
- henetic counseling
- yenetic counseling
- tenetic counseling
- gwnetic counseling
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- genstic counseling
- gendtic counseling
Etymology of GENETIC COUNSELING
The etymology of the phrase "genetic counseling" is as follows:
1. Genetic: The term "genetic" is derived from the noun "gene", which comes from the German word "Gen" coined by Wilhelm Johannsen in 1909. "Gen" is believed to be derived from the Greek word "genos", meaning "race", "species", or "kind".
2. Counseling: The word "counseling" originates from the Old English word "counsail", which came from the Old French word "conseil". Both of these words ultimately trace back to the Latin word "consilium", meaning "consultation" or "advice".
When combined, "genetic counseling" refers to the process of providing guidance, support, and education to individuals or families who are facing or at risk of hereditary or genetic conditions.
Similar spelling words for GENETIC COUNSELING
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