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Approaching parents to take part in a cleft gene bank: A qualitative pilot study

Williams, Lucy; Dures, Emma; Waylen, Andrea; Ireland, Tony; Rumsey, Nichola; Sandy, Jonathan

Authors

Lucy Williams

Emma Dures Emma2.Dures@uwe.ac.uk
Professor in Rheumatology and Self-management

Andrea Waylen

Tony Ireland

Jonathan Sandy



Abstract

Objective: A gene bank, comprising genetic material and environmental and family history data, is being established in the United Kingdom to improve the understanding of the etiology of orofacial clefting (OFC). This study aimed to identify factors that might contribute to participation in a cleft gene bank and what issues need to be considered in approaching parents to be included. Design: A qualitative approach was adopted, using focus groups and interviews. Transcripts of audio recordings were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Participants: A UK cleft center invited 100 families of children born with OFC to participate. Inclusion criteria included any parent of a child aged between 6 months and 16 years willing to take part. Sixteen parents participated. Results: Participants were generally motivated to take part in a cleft gene bank because they value the discovery of new knowledge of the etiology of OFC. They wanted reassurance about the purpose and integrity of the project. Many conveyed shock at the diagnosis of cleft and offered mixed accounts of experiences with health care professionals. They suggested an individualized approach from a trustworthy and sensitive professional when being invited to join the gene bank, avoiding difficult times associated with new-baby challenges and issues related to the cleft. Conclusions: This pilot study indicates that parents of children born with OFC would be supportive of developing a cleft gene bank, but sensitive issues need to be considered. © Copyright 2012 American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association.

Citation

Williams, L., Dures, E., Waylen, A., Ireland, T., Rumsey, N., & Sandy, J. (2012). Approaching parents to take part in a cleft gene bank: A qualitative pilot study. Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Journal, 49(4), 425-436. https://doi.org/10.1597/10-086

Journal Article Type Article
Publication Date Jan 1, 2012
Journal Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Journal
Print ISSN 1545-1569
Electronic ISSN 1545-1569
Publisher SAGE Publications
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 49
Issue 4
Pages 425-436
DOI https://doi.org/10.1597/10-086
Keywords cleft lip and palate, gene bank, qualitative, parent perception
Public URL https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/956465
Publisher URL http://dx.doi.org/10.1597/10-086