This article originally appeared in Star Chronicle, a newsletter
published for the Children's Medical Center. Regardless of
whether the patient is a mother with weeks to go before her baby
enters the world or a teenager trying to overcome mysterious
developmental issues, learning the reason for a genetic disorder
can offer possible solutions for physicians and peace of mind
for families. According to Beverly Hay, MD, chief of genetics,
"Genetics can play an important role in medical care. For
example, it is highly effective in thwarting some medical
issues. Required newborn screenings can detect many rare
disorders to allow for treatment to begin before problems
arise." Testing can also be done on those who are predisposed to
develop various diseases, such as cancer. Oftentimes, screenings
are done in conjunction with other specialties, such as
orthopedics, dermatology, gastroenterology,
developmental/behavioral pediatrics and obstetrics. Some cases
are very medically involved, so the team lessens the burden