Genetic Testing and Inherited Diseases

Boost in prenatal genetic testing linked to declining incidence of inherited diseases.
The AP (2/17) reports, "Some of mankind's most devastating inherited diseases appear to be declining, and a few have nearly disappeared, because more people are using genetic testing to decide whether to have children," according to "interviews with numerous geneticists and other experts and a review of...research" conducted by the AP. The work revealed that "more women are being tested as part of routine prenatal care, and many end pregnancies when diseases are found." The declining cost of genetic testing contributes to the trend, as "the number of companies offering it is rising."