Abstract

FETAL GENETIC DISORDERS IN PREGNANCY: A COMPARATVE STUDY OF TREATMENT IN INDIA VS OTHER COUNTRIES

M. Vinothini*, B. Prethika, V. Ajay, G. P. Jothika, S. Senthilkumar, S. Parthasarathi

Abstract

Fetal genetic disorders are a major cause of congenital anomalies and neonatal morbidity worldwide. Advances in prenatal diagnostic techniques such as ultrasonography, noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT), amniocentesis, and chorionic villus sampling have improved early detection and management of fetal abnormalities. This review compares the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies for fetal genetic disorders in India and developed countries. In India, management mainly focuses on genetic counseling, prenatal screening, and selective termination due to limited access to advanced fetal therapies. Developed countries, however, have established specialized fetal medicine centers and advanced interventions including inutero surgery, stem cell therapy, and experimental gene therapy. The review also discusses ethical and legal considerations, preventive strategies, and the future role of genomics and precision fetal medicine in improving maternal and fetal healthcare outcomes.

Keywords: Fetal genetic disorders; Prenatal diagnosis; NIPT; Genetic counseling; Stem cell therapy; Gene therapy; Congenital anomalies; Thalassemia; Down syndrome; Precision fetal.