Re: Question 7 -- MSJA Genetics

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Subject: Re: Question 7

Author:
Hud

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Date Posted: 10:27:25 12/12/03 Fri
In reply to: Natalie 's message, "Question 7" on 09:13:35 12/10/03 Wed

I completely agree with Natalie's above statements. I also believe that genetic testing is a very personal decision and should be made solely by the patient who is at risk. Since Janet was obviously very emotionally distressed about her potential risk of obtaining Alzheimers, I do believe it was a good idea for her to be tested. Although the tests showed the "worst case scenario", I believe that at least now Janet does not have to be left in the dark wondering what her future holds. This way, she will have more time to prepare herself for the onset of Alzheimers. It is also helpful for Janet's family to know her risk of getting the disease because then they can better prepare themselves and accomodate their lives for the hard road that lays in front of them. With no time to prepare for Janet's disease, her family and friends would have to make last minute accomodations, thus resulting in more emotional stress.
I also believe that genetic tests should be left up to the individual at risk's judgment. If they feel ready to face the worst and can cope with the results of the test, then by all means they should go ahead and take one. Some people, however, would be drawn to drastic measures (such a suicide) if they were diagnosed with a worst case scenario and should therefore, not have a genetic test. In the end, all decisions concerning the patient should be made by them, because it is ultimately their life.

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