The Ministry of Health and Welfare announced on the 28th that it has added seven genetic disorders that can be tested through pre-birth embryo and fetus genetic testing. These were selected after patient requests were reviewed by a Commissioner committee, considering symptoms, age of onset, severity, and the possibility of treatment and management.
The seven newly added genetic disorders are Gorlin syndrome, squalene synthase deficiency, branchial-ocular-facial syndrome, autosomal recessive microcephaly accompanied by chorioretinal dysplasia, restrictive dermopathy, IPEX syndrome, and ERT-related congenital keratinization disorders. This brings the total number of genetic disorders eligible for embryo or fetus genetic testing to 237.
The ministry noted, "We are supporting expectant parents to alleviate concerns about the possibility of carrying a child with a fatal genetic disorder, allowing them to safely plan for childbirth," and added, "Genetic disorders that can be treated and managed require careful review to protect the rights of embryos and fetuses to life."