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International Alliance of ALS/MND Associations

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  • What is ALS/MND
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  • Support for PALS & CALS
    • Fundamental Rights for People with ALS/MND and Caregivers
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      • Amylyx – AMX0035
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Genetic Counselling & Testing

In most cases of ALS/MND (~90%), there is only one person in a family that has a diagnosis of ALS/MND; this is often referred to as “sporadic” ALS/MND. In a smaller proportion of cases (~10%), there are several individuals within the same family that have been diagnosed with ALS/MND; this is often referred to as “familial” ALS/MND. This raises suspicion for a genetic cause, as families share similar genes.

There are still cases of familial ALS/MND for which the underlying genetic cause is unknown. Similarly, absence of a family history in sporadic ALS/MND does not necessarily mean that there is no underlying genetic cause.

After an individual has been diagnosed with ALS/MND, they may inquire about genetic counselling and testing. All people living with ALS/MND should have access to, and be provided information on, genetic counselling and testing, regardless of whether they have sporadic or familial ALS/MND.

A consultation with a genetic counsellor will involve discussing the individual’s family medical history. The benefits and potential outcomes of genetic tests, and answers to any questions a person may have about the test or potential results, are also discussed. Moreover, a consultation with a genetic counsellor does not mean that a genetic test will be conducted. Instead, individuals use these consultations to decide if genetic testing is right for them.

The results of genetic tests in people with familial ALS/MND could identify a genetic mutation. Identifying a genetic mutation occurs in roughly 60 – 70% of people with familial ALS/MND.

Our understanding on how often ALS/MND associated mutations occur in people with sporadic ALS/MND is currently evolving, as genetic testing becomes more widely available.

A genetic counsellor or other healthcare providers can discuss options with the individual and their family if there is a positive test result.

To learn more about genetic testing and genetic counsellors, please refer to the resources provided below.

Infographics

The following are the Alliance’s infographics on the topic of Genetic Counselling and Testing.

The Alliance and Genetics
ALS/MND Genetically-Targeted Therapy Acceleration Timeline
Ethical Considerations in ALS/MND Genetics
Introduction to Genetics: What is genetic variation?
Introduction to Genetics: What is your genome?
ALS/MND Genetics: Why is genetics relevant to ALS/MND?
ALS/MND Genetics: Can genes affect the type of ALS/MND?
ALS/MND Genetics: What can we do about genetic ALS/MND? / Genética en la ELA/ENM: Qué podemos hacer nosotros sobre la genética en la ELA/ENM?

Resources

The following are resources from Members of the International Alliance of ALS/MND Associations on the topic of Genetic Counselling and Testing.

ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR GENETICS

A discussion of the risks and benefits of genetic testing in individuals who are symptomatic or have a family history of ALS. Different contexts and potential considerations for individuals who are symptomatic for ALS, with and without a family history of ALS, or those who are asymptomatic for ALS but considering undergoing genetic testing will be discussed


GENETICS – COUNSELLING & TESTING

The Alliance´s Fundamental Rights were updated in 2021 to include the right to have access upon diagnosis to genetic counselling and testing. There are numerous therapies in development for the genetic forms of ALS/MND. For people living with ALS/MND to be able to access clinical trials, and future potentially approved therapies, access to both genetic counselling and testing will be necessary. This webinar touched on; what is genetic counselling and role of a genetic counsellor, what is involved in genetics counselling & testing, availability, awareness of ethical issues surrounding genetic testing , psychological effects of genetic testing and tackling difficult concepts in ALS/MND clinical genetics.


Introduction to ALS/MND Genetics

Recent discoveries are adding significant knowledge to the understanding of genetics in ALS/MND and potential treatments. This webinar provided an overview of the current ALS/MND landscape and an understanding of genetics, so that people impacted by ALS/MND and their families have the basic tools to understand what this means and their options.

 

 

Inherited MND: Introduction

This guide provides an introduction to understanding inherited ALS/MND. It was created by the MND Association (MNDA) as part one of a three guide series. Part one discusses what to consider, such as genetic testing and finding care and support when undergoing these types of consultations.

https://www.mndassociation.org/app/uploads/2019/02/B1-Introduction-to-inherited-MND.pdf

Language: English
Subject Areas: Genetic Testing, Genetic Counselling, For People with ALS/MND, For Caregivers

Genetic Testing for ALS: Fact Sheet

This short fact sheet provides people living with ALS/MND and caregivers information about genetic testing. This includes a description of how genes may play a role in ALS/MND, what the tests look for, and what a positive test means.

https://www.als.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/ALSCAN-GeneticTesting-EN.pdf

Language: English
Subject Areas: Genetic Testing, For People with ALS/MND, For Caregivers

Genetic Testing For ALS

This resource is provided by the ALS Association (ALSA) for people living with ALS/MND. Information about genetic counselling and its benefits are provided. Additionally, this resource supplies information on how genetic testing works and the pros and cons of genetic testing for people living with ALS/MND and their caregivers or family members.

https://www.als.org/understanding-als/who-gets-als/genetic-testing

Language: English
Subject Areas: Genetic Testing, Genetic Counselling, For People with ALS/MND, For Caregivers

Familial ALS

ALSA created this booklet as a resource for people living with ALS/MND and caregivers to learn more about the science behind genetic testing and when a person may want to receive genetic testing. In addition, this booklet discusses the positive and negative implications that a person may need to consider before genetic testing.

https://www.als.org/sites/default/files/2020-04/Familial-ALS-Booklet-DIGITAL-04-17-18.pdf

Language: English
Subject Areas: Genetic Testing, Genetic Counselling, For People with ALS/MND, For Caregivers

About Genetic Counselors

This website is often referred to by ALSA for individuals to learn more about genetic counselling and how they can be a part of your multidisciplinary healthcare team. Although based in the United States, this resource provides foundational information that may benefit individuals living with ALS/MND globally.

https://www.nsgc.org/About/About-Genetic-Counselors

Language: English
Subject Areas: Genetic Counselling, Multidisciplinary Healthcare Team, For People with ALS/MND, For Caregivers

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Care services

  • Genetic Counselling & Testing
  • Mental Health Support
  • Nursing and Symptom Management
  • Nutrition and Swallowing
  • Occupational Therapy and Activities of Daily Living
  • Physiotherapy and Mobility
  • Respiratory Care
  • Speech Therapy and Communication
  • Support for Family & Caregivers
  • Technology

  • Shay Rishoni, Diagnosed 2011 - Prize4Life, Israel

    Shay Rishoni, Diagnosed 2011 – Prize4Life, Israel

  • Margarita Pizarro, Asociacion ELA Argentina, Diagnosed 2017, Argentina

    Margarita Pizarro, Asociacion ELA Argentina, Diagnosed 2017, Argentina

  • Chun Ju Xiao, China

    Chun Ju Xiao, China

  • Brigitte Wernli,  Association ALS Switzerland,  Diagnosed 2014

    Brigitte Wernli, Association ALS Switzerland, Diagnosed 2014

  • Wilfried Leusing, Diagnosed 2010 , DGM, Germany

    Wilfried Leusing, Diagnosed 2010 , DGM, Germany

  • Hollister

    Hollister
    hollister

  • Mauril Belanger

    Mauril Belanger

  • Wendy Hendrickson, ALS Hope Foundation, USA

    Wendy Hendrickson, ALS Hope Foundation, USA

  • Jon Newsome, Les Turner ALS Foundation, USA

    Jon Newsome, Les Turner ALS Foundation, USA

  • Hans Dieter Olszewski, Diagnosed 2010 , DGM, Germany

    Hans Dieter Olszewski, Diagnosed 2010 , DGM, Germany

  • Maurice Leclerc, Canada

    Maurice Leclerc, Canada

  • Jean

    Jean
    jean

  • John and Loretta Russo, USA

    John and Loretta Russo, USA
    final3878

  • Tison, USA

    Tison, USA

  • Roy

    Roy
    roy

  • Inta Grubb, Diagnosed 2014,  MND Australia

    Inta Grubb, Diagnosed 2014, MND Australia

  • Erwin Coppejans, Diagnosed 2007 , ALS Liga België, Belgium

    Erwin Coppejans, Diagnosed 2007 , ALS Liga België, Belgium

  • Margreth Burger-Saile, Diagnosed 2011,  ALS Schweiz,  Switzerland

    Margreth Burger-Saile, Diagnosed 2011, ALS Schweiz, Switzerland

  • Glen Elison,  ALS Hope Foundation,  Diagnosed 2019,  USA

    Glen Elison, ALS Hope Foundation, Diagnosed 2019, USA

  • Chih Ching Darren Wong, MND Malaysia

    Chih Ching Darren Wong, MND Malaysia

  • Steven Gallagher, Canada

    Steven Gallagher, Canada

  • Guido De Mets, Belgium

    Guido De Mets, Belgium

  • Purningam Jacob, Diagnosed 2012 , Asha Ek Hope Foundation, India

    Purningam Jacob, Diagnosed 2012 , Asha Ek Hope Foundation, India

  • Armando González Gómez, ACELA, Colombia

    Armando González Gómez, ACELA, Colombia

  • Steve

    Steve

  • Zabun Nassar, MND Association, Diagnosed 2016, England

    Zabun Nassar, MND Association, Diagnosed 2016, England

  • Frank "Papa" Taylor

    Frank “Papa” Taylor

  • Phil Rossall, MND-Association, UK

    Phil Rossall, MND-Association, UK

  • Ann Nicol

    Ann Nicol

  • Karl Hughes, Diagnosed 2010 , IMNDA,  Ireland

    Karl Hughes, Diagnosed 2010 , IMNDA, Ireland

  • Carlos Gomez Matallanas, Diagnosed 2014 , FUNDELA, Spain

    Carlos Gomez Matallanas, Diagnosed 2014 , FUNDELA, Spain

  • Lombana, Spain

    Lombana, Spain

  • Roxana Canova, Diagnosed 2012 ,  Asociación ELA Argentina

    Roxana Canova, Diagnosed 2012 , Asociación ELA Argentina

  • Soledad Rodriguez, FUNDELA, Diagnosed 2013, Spain

    Soledad Rodriguez, FUNDELA, Diagnosed 2013, Spain

  • Greg Heydet, ALS Hope Foundation, USA

    Greg Heydet, ALS Hope Foundation, USA

  • Den Haag, Diagnosed 2016 , The Netherlands

    Den Haag, Diagnosed 2016 , The Netherlands

  • Lin Yong Yi, Taiwan MND Association, Diagnosed 2004

    Lin Yong Yi, Taiwan MND Association, Diagnosed 2004

  • Natalya Rybakova, Russia

    Natalya Rybakova, Russia

  • Valdomiro Xavier Honório, Brazil

    Valdomiro Xavier Honório, Brazil

  • Fabio Carvalho, Associação Pró-Cura da ELA, Brazil

    Fabio Carvalho, Associação Pró-Cura da ELA, Brazil

  • Jose Espinosa, Argentina

    Jose Espinosa, Argentina

  • Angela Jansen, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Muskelkranke e.V.-DGM, Diagnosed 1995, Germany

    Angela Jansen, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Muskelkranke e.V.-DGM, Diagnosed 1995, Germany

  • Wiebke Braach, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Muskelkranke, Germany

    Wiebke Braach, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Muskelkranke, Germany

  • Paul Launer, USA

    Paul Launer, USA

  • Mike Small, Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association, UK

    Mike Small, Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association, UK

  • Antonio Ventriglia,  ALS Liga Belgium,  Diagnosed 2013

    Antonio Ventriglia, ALS Liga Belgium, Diagnosed 2013

  • Verónica Isabel Castro Molina, Diagnosed 2014, Argentina

    Verónica Isabel Castro Molina, Diagnosed 2014, Argentina

  • Richard Clark, MND New Zealand,  Diagnosed 2011

    Richard Clark, MND New Zealand, Diagnosed 2011

  • Michael Lee, Australia

    Michael Lee, Australia

  • Alan Liz Ogg 29042016 000799 lo res

    Alan Liz Ogg 29042016 000799 lo res

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