Skip to content
WebMD: Better information. Better health.
 
Other search tools:Symptoms|Doctors|Medical Dictionary

Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency Genetic Testing

Font Size
A
A
A

What Is Genetic Counseling?

Information from genetic testing can have a big impact on your life. Ask to have genetic counseling before making a decision about testing. Genetic counselors are trained to explain the test and its results, but you make the decision about whether to have the test. A genetic counselor can help you make well-informed decisions. Genetic counseling can help you and your family:

  • Understand medical facts, including what causes diseases, how a diagnosis is made, and what you may be able to do to help you manage a disease.
  • Understand how your family history contributes to the development of a disease.
  • Help you learn about caring for a family member with a genetic disease, including getting referrals to specialists or joining support groups.

Genetic counselors are trained to help you and your family make informed decisions. They are sensitive to the physical and emotional aspects of these decisions. Your privacy and confidentiality are carefully protected.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: May 08, 2008
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
Next Article:

Hot Topics

Health Solutions From Our Sponsors

WebMD Video: Now Playing

Click here to wach video: Michelle Obama’s Nutrition Tips for Moms

First Lady Michelle Obama shares tips on parenting with moms and other audience members in a WebMD Town Hall meeting in Miami, Florida.

Click here to watch video: Michelle Obama’s Nutrition Tips for Moms

Popular Slideshows & Tools on WebMD

puppy eating
What you need to know.
Ra Management Get A Personalized Report
Assess your symptoms.
Xray of foot highlighting gout
Causes, symptoms and treatments.
Concentration Killers Slideshow
What's robbing your focus?
brain scan
Recognizing symptoms.
group beer toast
Do you know your suds?
Diabetic tools
Symptoms, causes, treatments.
thumbnail for fatigue slideshow
Causes, fixes for fatigue.
thumbnail for Brain Food slideshow
Foods that can help you focus.
Hot cup of coffee
The facts about that cup of joe.
Wendy’s Chicken Club
Double-fisted diet wreckers.

Women's Health Newsletter

Find out what women really need.