Scientists have developed a new test called Chromosome Aneuploidy Screening which checks embryos for chromosome abnormalities. The faulty embryos are discarded and only those with a good chance of developing into a healthy foetus will be implanted in the womb. Trials have shown a success rate of 88% which is over 3 times the success rate of current IVF in the UK.
The test costs £2000 a time, on top of the normal £4000 price of IVF. The success rate of the test means that couples opting for private treatment would save thousands as they would probably only require one cycle. It would also cut millions from the NHS's fertility bill as couples are normally offered 3 free cycles (costing the health service £12000). Researchers believe that the test will be available in 2-3years and will be widely used.
1 in 6 couples have difficulty conceiving naturally and IVF clinics treat 37,000 patients a year. This new test will be particularly useful for those women aged over 35 as they are a greater risk of producing genetic abnormalities.
The eggs shown to have abnormalities leading to such conditions as Down's, Edwards' and Turner's syndromes can be discarded. This could be seen as demoralising those living with these conditions; deeming their lives to be less worth living. However it would be in the best will of the child to have a healthy life and would be better for the family caring for the child so a utilitarian would support the new testing. There are also issues surrounding the idea of 'designer babies'; should we be allowed to intervene and 'play God', discarding the embryos and killing off those we don't deem fit enough. It would be easy for this to be developed further until humans have control over their offspring. This is a very controversial issue and would not be supported by a strong Roman Catholic.
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