Genetics, Human Genome Project and Occupational Therapy Practice

Abstract

The Human Genome Project (HGP) has enabled rapid advances in healthcare practice. Medical genetics, once largely confined to relatively rare diseases seen by only a few specialists, is now becoming a central component in our understanding of most major diseases. Occupational therapy practice, without a doubt, will be changed significantly by the explosion of genetic knowledge. This article provides the basic concepts of genes and their relationship to our health. Four types of genetic disorders are introduced. The HGP and its expected gains and limitations are described. Ethical, legal and social implications (ELSI) of advances in genetics are discussed with an example of an ethical dilemma. Finally, this article also provides information on genetic counseling to assist occupational therapists in identifying the need for a referral to genetic counseling.

Occupational Therapy in the Age of the Human Genome: Occupational Therapists’ Role in Genetics Research and Its Impact on Clinical Practice

“…Although certain aspects of genetics research such as cloning and genetic engineering have drawn the most public attention, genetics will see its greatest impact through its effects on everyday life and in everyday health care. Therefore, occupational therapy professionals and other health care providers will play key roles in the use of genetics information in their practice (Kyler & Thomas, 2000;Lou, 2001;Schroeder-Smith, Tischenkel, DeLange, & Lou, 2001).…”

“…In occupational therapy, understanding a client's genetic makeup and predisposition to conditions can also prove valuable for treatment planning and developing intervention strategies (Kyler & Thomas, 2000;Lou, 2001). Occupational therapy professionals can tailor goals toward individual clients more effectively by recognizing a person's predisposition for a particular condition and the potential impact on participation in future occupations (Schroeder-Smith et al, 2001).…”