Genetic screening in a university clinic: impact of primary language

Objective: To contrast Spanish-speaking (S) with English-speaking (E) obstetric patients regarding utilization of genetic screening, motivation for undergoing/declining screening, pregnancy-related anxiety, knowledge about genetic conditions, and printed information as an adjunct to counseling.

Method: Paper surveys were given to patients (n = 121) in an academic OB/GYN clinic or placed in charts (n = 271) over a 4-week period. Comparisons were evaluated with Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests.

Results: Completed surveys were returned from 245 gravidas (response rate 63%, S 48%, and E 67%). Uptake of genetic screening was similar between the groups (S 69% vs. E 57%, p = 0.13). No significant differences were noted in patients' motivation regarding screening, source of screening information, or self-assessed pregnancy-related anxiety. Familiarity of genetic disorders other than Down syndrome differed between the S and E groups (p < 0.003). Perceived positive utility of printed information differed significantly when groups were analyzed by language (S 85% vs. E 47%, p < 0.001) and by uptake of screening(screened 62% vs. not screened 44%, p = 0.006).

Conclusion: A majority of study participants (n = 147, 60%) chose genetic screening; uptake and motivation were similar across language groups. Familiarity with genetic conditions was deficient and screening terminology confusing regardless of primary language. The perceived positive utility of printed information (S > E) highlights the importance of clear and early counseling.