Risk of Birth Defects when Both Parents Carry Disease Gene

Ms. Hue, 37 years old, and Mr. Chu The Ky, 41 years old, have two children – a 14-year-old and an 11-year-old, both diagnosed with congenital muscular dystrophy. Initially, Ms. Hue took her child to various doctors but no illness was detected. She attributed it to being sick during pregnancy. However, the couple was devastated when their second child also showed the same symptoms as their first child.

Over the past decade, the family has been tirelessly searching for answers, taking their children to numerous doctors without success. As their children grew older, their health deteriorated along with slow motor development and mental retardation. This put a significant amount of stress on the mother, causing her to become frail and lose sleep. Despite having four adults in the family, Mr. Ky is the main breadwinner and finances are tight.

In early 2022, the couple applied for financial assistance for in vitro fertilization (IVF) at the Post Office Hospital. They were fortunate to be selected and underwent genetic testing, which revealed that both parents carried the genetic disease gene for congenital muscular dystrophy. With the help of Dr. Nguyen Thi Nha, the couple proceeded with IVF combined with pre-implantation genetic screening and were able to conceive a healthy baby boy in June 2023.

In a similar but separate case, Mr. Thinh (30 years old) and Ms. Nga (27 years old) wanted to have a child despite both being carriers of the Thalassemia gene. After seeking advice from Dr. Vuong Vu Viet Ha, they underwent IVF and pre-implantation genetic screening, resulting in the birth of a healthy daughter in June 2021.

Statistics from the Ministry of Health show that a significant number of children in Vietnam are born with birth defects each year. Genetic diseases can be passed down through generations and increase the risk of having children with birth defects. It is crucial for couples to undergo prenatal screenings and genetic testing to ensure the health of their future children.

Dr. Ha emphasized the importance of prenatal checkups for couples planning to have children, especially those with underlying health conditions or a history of genetic abnormalities. By using gene technology and advanced reproductive techniques, couples can take proactive measures to prevent genetic diseases and give birth to healthy children. The Post Office Hospital recently provided financial support for couples facing genetic diseases to undergo IVF, highlighting the importance of early detection and intervention.