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. 1990 May;263(10):2777-83.

The cystic fibrosis gene: medical and social implications for heterozygote detection

Benjamin S Wilfond, Norman Fost
  • PMID: 11653890

The cystic fibrosis gene: medical and social implications for heterozygote detection

Benjamin S Wilfond et al. JAMA. 1990 May.

Abstract

KIE: Heterozygote detection of the cystic fibrosis (CF) gene in the general population now is possible, and there are calls for immediate implementation of mass carrier screening. Given the large number of heterozygote carriers in the United States (approximately 1 in 25 whites), entrepreneurial interest is expected to be strong in what would be this country's most extensive genetic screening program. Wilfond and Fost review past American experiences and problems with mass screening programs for PKU and the sickle cell trait, and assess the potential for similar problems with a carrier screening program for CF. They stress the need for pilot studies before mass CF screening is implemented, and conclude with some procedural recommendations for avoiding the problems that accompanied earlier screening programs for genetic disease.

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