Evaluation of genetic counselors' knowledge and comfort level counseling for the genetics of hearing loss

Since the discovery of GJB2 in 1997 there has been an increase in knowledge and awareness of hereditary hearing loss. The purpose of this study was to survey genetic counselors on their knowledge and comfort level counseling for hereditary hearing loss. A short survey was distributed and collected at the National Society of Genetic Counselors Conference in November 2002.; Overall, participants rated their knowledge on hereditary hearing loss as fair-to-average. Those graduating before 1997 were more knowledgeable about the Connexin 26 carrier frequency and more comfortable counseling for hearing loss. Approximately half of participants correctly answered the question on the most common form of syndromic hearing loss. Participants' responses indicated a perception of increased exposure to hereditary hearing loss in their graduate training since 1997. Many participants feel there is a need for new patient resources on hereditary hearing loss. The results of this study were unanticipated and have potential implications for both the genetic counseling and hereditary hearing loss communities.