Genetic Counselor Awareness Day

Genetic Counsellor Awareness Day

Genetic Counsellor Awareness Day is celebrated annually to recognise the vital role that certified genetic counsellors play in healthcare — helping individuals and families understand their genetic risks, navigate complex test results, and make informed decisions about their health and family planning.

Who is a Genetic Counsellor?

A genetic counsellor is a healthcare professional with specialised training in medical genetics and counselling. They work at the intersection of science and human experience — translating complex genetic information into actionable guidance for patients and their families.

What Does a Genetic Counsellor Do?

• Take a detailed personal and family health history (pedigree analysis)

• Assess genetic risk for hereditary conditions, cancers, and chromosomal disorders

• Recommend and order appropriate genetic tests

• Interpret genetic test results and explain their implications

• Provide emotional support and help patients cope with genetic diagnoses

• Guide family planning decisions including carrier testing and prenatal options

• Coordinate cascade testing for at-risk family members

When Should You See a Genetic Counsellor?

• You have a personal or family history of hereditary cancer, heart disease, or rare genetic conditions

• You are planning a pregnancy and want to understand carrier risks

• You have received a genetic test result and need help interpreting it

• A family member has been diagnosed with a hereditary condition

• You have a child with a developmental delay, intellectual disability, or birth defects

Genetic Counselling in India

Access to certified genetic counsellors in India is growing — and MapmyGenome is at the forefront, offering telephonic and video genetic counselling sessions with certified specialists across a wide range of conditions.