Genetics and Primary Care

An Introductory Guide

Increasingly, primary care professionals are faced with challenges in dealing with patients who have been affected by a genetic disorder, or whose family history is of concern. A basic understanding of clinical genetics and the role of the genetics centres leads to greater confidence in the management of these patients. This book is an ideal introduction to the principles of genetics. It outlines the key influences that will affect primary care including screening programmes, the role of genetics education (such as the RCGP Genetics Curriculum) and national guidelines. It provides information on basic clinical genetics and includes some of the more common clinical genetic conditions seen in primary care, such as cystic fibrosis, breast cancer and the haemoglobinopathies. It addresses some of the key ethical issues that may be faced including patient confidentiality, the ethics of reproductive genetic medicine and relevant medico-legal cases. The wider societal impact of genetics is also discussed. An introduction to the increasing impact of genetics into primary care, this book is invaluable for every primary healthcare professional.