While genetic counselors are trained extensively in scientific methods and counseling techniques, they must also prepare themselves for working with clients from a variety of cultural and ethnic backgrounds. In chapters that show professionals how to understand the behavior and decision making of people from diverse cultural and ethnic groups, genetics experts offer insights and information about people who belong to Latin American, African, Native American, Chinese, Japanese, Indian, and Jewish ethnic groups, as well as individuals within the deaf community.

This is the only book I know of that discusses in depth the problems, solutions, and guidelines for cross-cultural and cross-ethnic genetic counseling in North America. Logical and effective in manner, this text is a substantial contribution to the field and will also be of interest to nurses, social workers, and other health workers involved in genetic counseling. -- James E. Bowman, M.D., University of Chicago

An excellent addition to the human genetics library. This book should reach not only genetics professionals but all health care providers.... [It] is the first global attempt by several experts from diverse backgrounds to address specific ethnic and cultural beliefs and their implications for genetic services. It is long overdue!--Alliance Alert

The book succeeds in making the reader aware of the ethnic groups that [geneticists] might meet.... If you see this book on your shelf, do pick it up.... You will find the book fascinating.--Journal of Medical Genetics

As more disease-causing genes become identified, an increasing number of people will seek accurate scientific information and counsel when making decisions about family planning and health care. While genetic counselors are trained extensively in scientific methods and counseling techniques, they must also prepare themselves for working with clients from a variety of cultural and ethnic backgrounds.

In chapters that show professionals how to understand the behavior and decision making of people from diverse cultural and ethnic groups, genetics experts offer insights and information about people who belong to Latin American, African, Native American, Chinese, Japanese, Indian, and Jewish ethnic groups, as well as individuals within the deaf community. Each population overview (in many instances written by a member of the culture under consideration) includes the groups history, migrational patterns, religious beliefs, family structure, traditional medical practices, and incidence of genetic disease. Complete with guidelines for genetic screening and counseling, this enlightening handbook should be on the shelf of every geneticist, genetic counselor, cross-cultural counselor, genetics and health care professional, and professional-in-training.

This is the only book I know of that discussesin depththe problems, solutions, and guidelines for cross-cultural and cross-ethnic genetic counseling in North America. Logical and effective in manner, this text is a substantial contribution to the field and will also be of interest to nurses, social workers, and other health workers involved in genetic counseling.-- James E. Bowman, M.D., University of Chicago