Geneticist
Geneticists are medical doctors who specialize in the study of human genes (see full Glossary) and chromosomes (see ECI Glossary). They study heredity factors (the things a person inherits from family), family histories and genetic mutations (or changes). They treat individuals who have genetic disorders and offer:
- Genetic testing to determine whether or not a person has a genetic or chromosomal disorder. This includes:
- Blood tests (Fig. 1);
- X-rays (Fig. 2);
- Ultrasounds (Fig. 3);
- Genetic counseling to families who have a member with a genetic condition or disorder:
- Understanding how likely it is that other members of the family will develop or have the same genetic disorder;
- Understanding how likely it is that siblings may have children who have the same genetic disorder;
- Understanding the difference between recessive (see full Glossary) and dominant (see full Glossary) genes;
- Understanding the preventive measures that can decrease genetic disorders.
- Preventive services: For instance, by checking for genetic conditions such as PKU (see full Glossary), geneticists can diagnose children right away after birth, and offer intervention options to families.
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