Bridging Science and Compassion: Inside the World of Genetic Counselling
‘Counselling’ is not exactly an unfamiliar word. We’ve heard it in films, at work, at home, and some may have even experienced it firsthand, whether in family, marriage, or career counselling. But what about genetic counselling? Did you pause for a moment there? If so, it’s okay! You’re not alone. Many people have not heard of the term ‘genetic counselling’, let alone knowing what it involves.
Fortunately, Lee Yong Quan, or simply known as Quan, a Research Associate from the Genetic Counselling Unit at Cancer Research Malaysia (CRMY), is here to shed some light on the topic. He shares his journey into the field, the challenges the profession faces, and why genetic counselling matters.
A Career That Blends Science with Helping People
Born and raised in Selangor, Quan discovered his passion for genetics during his A-Levels. It quickly became his favourite subject in Biology, leading him to pursue a degree in Genetics in Edinburgh, UK, followed by postgraduate training in genetic counselling in Melbourne, Australia.
Studying genetics alone wasn’t enough. Quan wanted a career that involved working with people and making a direct impact for those in need. “Even though I enjoyed lab work, I wanted more human interaction. Plus, I’ve always found fulfilment in helping others,” he said. His past volunteering experiences like teaching underprivileged children, assisting at a special needs school, and even teaching English in Vietnam, reinforced this desire.
Why Genetic Counselling Matters More Than Ever
Compared to many countries in the West, genetic counselling in Malaysia is still in its early stages, but there are growing efforts to expand its accessibility. Organisations such as the Genetic Counselling Society of Malaysia (GCSM) and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) have been instrumental in building a local genetic counselling workforce.
As genetic testing becomes increasingly relevant in various areas of medicine, there is a growing need for healthcare professionals and testing laboratories to recognise the importance of proper pre-test and post-test genetic counselling.
“There are still many misconceptions about genetic counselling, largely due to the word ‘counselling’ itself. It is not just about discussing emotions or performing some psychological evaluation before someone undergoes genetic testing,” Quan explained.
He added that the primary role of genetic counsellors is to help individuals make informed decisions about genetic testing and inherited conditions. This includes assessing a person’s genetic risk based on their medical history and family history, explaining the benefits and limitations of genetic testing, and guiding them through the implications of a genetic diagnosis.
Rather than acting as gatekeepers, genetic counsellors ensure that people have the knowledge they need to make the best health-related choices for themselves and their families.
A Growing Career Opportunity in Malaysia
While the demand for genetic testing in Malaysia is steadily increasing, the nation faces a significant shortage of certified genetic counsellors, with fewer than 20 currently serving the population. This falls considerably short of the recommended number. Organisations like the Genetic Counselling Society of Malaysia (GCSM) and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) are actively working to build a stronger local workforce through training initiatives.
Looking ahead, it is anticipated that genetic counselling will continue to evolve in response to the rising demand. However, even with increased training efforts, the number of professionals is likely to be outpaced by the growing need for their services
Final Thoughts
Quan and other genetic healthcare professionals from Malaysia in the 5th Clinical Genetics Symposium jointly organized by Baylor’s College of Medicine, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, and Universiti Malaya.
For those considering a career in genetic counselling, Quan highlights empathy and continuous learning as essential qualities. Empathy is at the heart of the profession, and training programmes seek individuals who can connect with and support those in need.
As a result, genetic counsellors will play an increasingly collaborative role, working closely with specialists from various medical fields to ensure that genetic testing is used effectively and appropriately. The goal is to ensure that the right tests are provided to the right patients at the right time, ultimately improving patient care.
At the same time, genetics is an ever-evolving field. A test once considered to be cutting-edge or the “gold standard” may be replaced by another in just a few years. Staying up to date and being adaptable is key in this profession.
Genetic counselling is more than just understanding one’s DNA. It’s about empowering individuals with the knowledge to make informed healthcare decisions.
How to Get Genetic Counselling & Testing in Malaysia
If you or someone you know has a family history of cancer or genetic conditions, visit www.genetix.my. Genetix, a wholly owned subsidiary of CRMY, offers comprehensive genetic services, including expert genetic counselling and advanced diagnostic tests for inherited cancer syndromes.
What We Offer:
- Comprehensive genetic counselling (pre-test & post-test guidance).
- Advanced genetic testing panels for cancer risk and inherited diseases.
- A team of trained genetic counsellors & specialists guiding you through the process.
For further enquiries, contact us at 6012-374 7426 or 6012-264 3894.