Genome screening

Early detection of predisposed genetic abnormalities, early ultrasound scanning (from six weeks), antenatal tests for Down Syndrome, 4D scanning and the Addmark test are all available under one roof at the Leeds Screening Centre.

Many of the centres within the Northern region offer ‘pretty pictures’ from ultrasound scanning, but we provide top class clinical information. Couples are also reassured and love that we talk them through the ultrasound scan and screening process as it is happening, something that is usually overlooked in the NHS.

Parents-to-be will be pricking their ears up, but when it comes to pregnancy there are always plenty of questions to be asked. Lynda Moyo spoke to Judith Pilling, business manager at the centre, to make sense of all the science…

What exactly is ‘Genome Screening’ and what’s the difference between this and Ultrasound screening?
Ultrasound screening in pregnancy is a medical imaging technique which can be used to view a baby inside the womb. Photographs can be taken of the baby to allow couples to bond with their unborn child.

Genome Screening uses this imaging technique in conjunction with maternal blood samples, where necessary, to screen for predisposed genetic abnormalities.

When would this sort of screening be necessary?
Genome screening should be a consideration for couples who are thinking about starting a family. This way they can be aware of any predisposed genetic conditions and be armed with the options available to them.

Once a woman becomes pregnant it is reassuring to check visually if the pregnancy is viable. A fetal heartbeat can be detected from as early as six to seven weeks. Screening for the risk of Down’s (and Edward’s) syndrome in the foetus is best performed between 9 -13 weeks.

Using the non-invasive Addmark test, patented by Genome screening, the couple are accessing the optimum screening tool. Addmark detects the greatest number of Down’s affected pregnancy’s with an invasive test rate of 1 in 200 ladies. The best possible NHS test has an invasive test rate of 1 in 50 pregnant women. This makes Addmark four times better compared to the best possible rate available on the NHS. Screening via Genome does not stop here - a pregnancy can be monitored through until delivery giving total peace of mind for those couples who need it.

Is screening open to all pregnant women?
The screening is available to all pregnant women and those who are not yet pregnant. What many people do not realise is the value the tests offer, especially when you consider the impact it could have on the parents, the child’s future and the decisions around that.

Talk me through the process of a screening...
The screening process is a simple procedure. All tests can be arranged via a simple phone call either by the patient or their healthcare professional. Genome’s screening coordinators explain the necessary steps involved in the process, record appropriate details and arrange all the timings of the test and any blood samples required.

How have women who have used the centre found the screening process?
Comments and feedback have shown that women have been extremely satisfied with the service and many returned to the Centre in subsequent pregnancies.

They know that the service they receive is comprehensive and backed-up with medical support. Many of the centres within the Northern region offer ‘pretty pictures’ from ultrasound scanning, but we provide top class clinical information. Couples are also reassured and love that we talk them through the ultrasound scan and screening process as it is happening, something that is usually overlooked in the NHS. If there is a problem we can explain fully at the end of the scan their options which enable parents to make the right choices for them in their pregnancy. We offer complete care and reassurance, which many people feel the NHS lacks.

What makes these tests (especially for Down’s Syndrome) safer than the tests already available for free on the NHS?
The Down’s syndrome test is safer than those available on the NHS. Addmark screening puts less babies at risk of miscarriage from an invasive procedure compared to tests available on the NHS.

Addmark has a four times less patient invasive test rate and still detects more Down’s affected pregnancies - 93 per cent as opposed to 81 per cent detection on the NHS. The other advantages are that all tests are carried out by staff who specialise in pregnancy screening and perform the same tests every day. Hence, they are more efficient and accurate at getting the best results in the safest possible way.

What makes The Leeds Clinic different from other clinics offering these sort of tests?
The Leeds Centre differs from other centres because Genome Screening has both medical and scientific support.

Few centres in the UK have combined genetic screening in conjunction with ultrasound scanning giving expectant parents the ability to know more about their baby before birth than ever before.

If abnormalities are found, what's the next step?
All screening tests are discussed fully with the parents in most cases face to face immediately after the test. Telephone support is there when questions arise after leaving the centre so parents can ask questions and seek reassurance at any time.

We talk each couple through the options available to them, what the potential outcomes may be and liaise with the relevant healthcare professionals within the NHS as well as their GP. Genome screening ensures that everyone receives the most up-to-date best possible medical. We take the stress out of the screening process.

What kind of help/advice is available or on offer to parents who discover there is an abnormality?
The Leeds Screening Centre prides itself on ultimate exemplary patient care and in speaking to clients in a language they can understand in order for them to be able to make the best possible choices. The Leeds based centre works closely with the NHS and patients’ own doctors to ensure that a seamless service is delivered, with primary importance placed on the quality of care to the individual and ensuring they know what their options are and the best way to move forward.

These tests obviously come at a price. What kind of help/funding is available to parents who want/need the tests but can't afford the cost?
There are Down’s screening tests and ultrasound imaging available on the NHS. However, Genome screening is there for couples who want complete reassurance, peace of mind and it gives them more than the NHS can afford to offer.

What people are paying for is access to the latest and most hi-tech tests available. This, together with ultimate patient care using language which clients understand, means that Genome screening allows couples to make the best possible choices for the future of their next generation. They are also attending one of the only clinics to have merged medically supported imaging and genetic screening.

Why is the 4D scan worth splashing out on?
The breathtaking imagery of 4-dimensional scanning is as close as a parent can get to the real thing. Life-like pictures of your unborn child enable you and your family a sneak preview of your future in the womb before it happens. The reassurance that the baby is growing and developing well is at the forefront of Genome 4D scanning. We need to know all is well before we can astound you with the magic of this revolutionary photography.

Further information and prices can be found at www.genomescreening.co.uk or telephone 0113 262 1675 for more information.

Leeds Screening Centre
3 Gemini Park
Leeds
LS7 3JB