Genetics Clinic an Area First-July 12, 1986

Norwood Hospital was poised to take a significant step forward in supporting families affected by genetic disorders and birth defects. The introduction of the area’s first genetic counseling clinic marked a crucial moment for the community, as it would provide accessible services for couples facing high risks or already dealing with these challenges. The clinic was set to be one of seven in the state connected with the National Birth Defects Center in Brighton, serving not only Norwood but also the broader South Shore area.

Sandra Gansman, a spokesperson for Norwood Hospital, highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating that prior to its establishment, couples would have had to travel to Boston for similar testing. This new clinic aimed to address this gap and provide a much-needed resource for local residents. The clinic’s services would include identifying couples at high risk of having children with birth defects, such as Tay Sachs disease, which is frequently found in the Jewish population.

This devastating condition typically results in children living no longer than two years after birth. Gansman emphasized that while the diagnosis was difficult to accept, it gave parents valuable knowledge and options regarding whether or not to start a family. The clinic would also offer or direct people to advanced testing methods that enable doctors to detect defects earlier during pregnancy.

The National Birth Defects Center in Brighton played a pivotal role in this initiative, providing access to information, referrals, and research on birth defects across the country. Founded by the Genesis Foundation in 1984, this organization aimed to make it possible for children with genetic diseases, birth defects, and mental retardation to receive special care and treatment.

Robert Braitman, chief of pediatrics at Norwood Hospital, was instrumental in establishing the birth defects center in Norwood. Through its connection to the national center, the clinic would have access to a wide range of resources, including counseling services for those found to be at risk of having a child with a birth defect and support groups for parents dealing with similar challenges.

The clinic would also offer funding assistance for families with children who had multiple birth defects. Furthermore, patients would have access to a hotline number for information on potential causes of birth defects linked to environmental factors such as drugs, infections, radiation, and chemical exposure.

As Gansman noted, the more people know about the capabilities of individuals with birth defects, the less fear there will be within the population. This clinic marked an important step toward increased awareness and understanding, ultimately aiming to make a positive impact on families affected by these challenges.

Archival Note: This article has been dynamically reconstructed from the original public record print archives of the Patriot Ledger