Pediatricians’ Knowledge of and Attitudes Toward Fragile X Syndrome Screening

Background

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) screening exemplifies the challenges of screening for rare genetic conditions, including the potential to detect carriers and the lack of evidence regarding the benefit of early intervention.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate knowledge, experience, and attitudes of pediatricians toward FXS screening, either as part of newborn screening or at the 12-month well-child visit.

Methods

Responses to survey mailings to 400 general pediatricians were analyzed.

Results

The response rate was 47%. Although most (98%) reported knowing that FXS causes intellectual disability, only half (53%) knew that females could be affected and 28% knew that carriers can have health problems as adults. Only 39% reported knowing enough about FXS to discuss the condition with the family of a child who might have the condition. Most respondents (78%) believed that newborn screening for FXS would be beneficial for children and families. About half (55%) believed that parents should be offered FXS screening as part of well-child care. Few (8%) reported that they would not support FXS newborn screening or screening during well-child care because of carrier detection.

Conclusions

Among respondents there is good support for FXS newborn screening and some support for FXS screening as part of well-child care. Prior to implementing screening, efforts are needed to educate pediatricians and assess their ability to inform parents about the implications of testing and provide care after the identification of FXS or carriers. These activities can serve as a model for how to introduce other genomic tests into the primary care setting.

Key Words: fragile X syndrome, genetic screening, neonatal screening, preventive health services