Reference no: EM133244414

Consider the following scenario: 

A man and a woman are considering conceiving a baby. Both parents have a family history of Sickle Cell Disease and are concerned that they may have the genetic trait of sickle cell and either pass it along to their child or the child may be diagnosed with Sickle Cell Disease. To understand their risk better they seek genetic counseling. After conducting the genetic evaluation the parents learn that they are both carriers of the Sickle Cell Trait. This means that there is a 50% chance they will pass on the trait to their child and a 25% chance their child will be born with Sickle Cell Disease. Now knowing this information the parents weigh out the options and decide to adopt a child. Sickle Cell Disease can present many medical hardships for an individual throughout their lifespan and this was not something these parents wanted to risk for their child.

• Do you agree with the parents decision in this scenario? Explain.
• What are some of the medical complications that the child could have experienced if they inherited Sickle Cell Disease?
• Should doctors encourage parents to seek genetic counseling if there is a family history of major or life threatening diseases?Explain.
• Finally, are there any other potential risks (social and/or medical) genetic counseling may present?