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6 Genetics in Primary Care
This section of our curriculum guide refers to statement 6, Genetics in Primary Care, produced by the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP).
It has been estimated that at least one in 10 of the patients seen in primary care has a disorder with a genetic component. Genetic knowledge, skills and attitudes are important to general practitioners providing support and management to patients and families with, or at risk of, genetic conditions. Consideration of the family history in, for example, cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes, and understanding genetic aspects of antenatal and newborn screening, are particularly important. GPs have a key role in identifying patients and families who would benefit from being referred to appropriate specialist genetic services.
Here we have collated key articles from our journals to help you meet the curriculum requirements in this area.
Latest articles

Genetic information and confidentiality
In the latest in our series on the GMC's new confidentiality guidance, MDU medico-legal...

Sickle cell anaemia
The diagnosis, features and management of sickle cell anaemia, including identifying...

Acute myeloid leukaemia: clinical review
Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is a clonal malignant disorder characterised by the...

Clinical Review - Prader-Willi syndrome
Prader-Willi syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that causes characteristics such...

Clinical images: Paediatric problems
Dermatitis, alopecia and molluscum contagiosum. By Dr Philip Marazzi

Clinical Review: Bipolar affective disorder
How to diagnose and manage patients in the long term. By psychiatrist Dr Muffazal...

Rare Diseases - Alport syndrome
The key features of this inherited cause of kidney failure are summarised by Dr Raj...

Case Study - Family history
It is important to use routine check ups to ask about a family history. By Dr Zara...

Discussing genetics with your patients
In the second of our articles on genetic testing in primary care, Professor Peter...

The basics - Sickle cell anaemia
The associated complications can rapidly become serious without timely attention,...

Paediatric medicine - Cystic fibrosis
Families benefit from an interested, supportive primary care team working with the...