A national strategy for the management of congenital and hereditary disorders

Abstract

Chronic conditions such as congenital and hereditary disorders not only involve high treatment - and caring costs but have far reaching social and psychosocial implications. Throughout the world, human geneticists are in agreement that about 5 percent of all newborns have a significant genetic disorder. Since genetic disorders can seldom or never be treated or corrected, the possibilities of prevention have become a necessary consideration. Consequently an attempt has been made in the R.S.A. to manage genetic disorders which is aimed at prevention in community context. The strategy and criteria for determining priorities are also discussed. Methods for prevention and the possible effects thereof are outlined. In retrospect it appears that the establishment of a national genetics programme is warranted, and the practical value of such a programme is indicated from the progress made to date.