| Sickle-cell disease (SCD) is a common genetic disorder that can lead to severe health complications. Using in vitro fertilization (IVF) with preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), not only can SCD-free embryos be selected for implantation, but HLA-status may be matched to an existing sibling. At birth of the second child, umbilical cord blood may be used in a hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) of the SCD-affected offspring, curing the latter. Unfortunately, this possibility (called in vitro fertilization with therapeutic intent---IVFTI) is not routinely used for SCD. The reasons for this may be financial, social, and ethical in nature. This study interviewed SCD patients and parents to create a spectrum of perspectives regarding using IVF, PGD, and IVFTI. Participants disagreed on the ethics and risk assessments of the procedures, but almost all believed that financial barriers are substantial, and that more opportunities for patient education about these technologies are important. |
