The Cuban Program for Predictive Testing of SCA2: 11 Years and 768 Individuals to Learn From.

Cruz Mariño T, Velázquez Pérez L, González Zaldivar Y, Aguilera Rodríguez R, Velázquez Santos M, Vázquez Mojena Y, Estupiñán Rodríguez A, Laffita Mesa JM, Armiñán RR, Almaguer Mederos LE, Paneque Herrera M.

Source

Center for the Research and Rehabilitation of Hereditary Ataxias.

Abstract

Having reported the world's highest prevalence of SCA2, health professionals in Cuba developed a program for the predictive testing of this condition. Between February 2001 and December 2011 a total of 1050 individuals requested their inclusion in the presymptomatic testing program. Their medical records were retrospectively analyzed in the present descriptive study. A total of 768 participants completed the protocol, 204 withdrew and 78 were excluded. The presymptomatic testing uptake was 24.91%. Females predominated and 70.96% had negative test results. Their main motivations were risk assessment in their descendants, physical and psychological preparation to cope with the disease and planning for the future. The profile of Cuban participants in the predictive testing program is similar to the one reported for other programs all over the world, nevertheless the genetic counseling practice at the community level is a distinctive aspect, which is valuable in providing at-risk individuals with wide and proper knowledge before their testing inclusion request. The SCA2 predictive testing program has high uptake rates and is renowned in our population. Future research is needed to assess the long-term psychological impact in the participants, their partners and relatives.
© 2013 John Wiley & Sons A/S.