Fears test could lead to ‘designer babies’

A blood test that can detect more than 600 hereditary diseases before conception will shortly be available north of the border.

Couples from the South, who wish to avail of the service, can self-refer to either Randox Health at the MediSpa, Culloden Hotel, Co Down, or to Randox Health, Crumlin in Co Antrim.

Playing down concerns that the test could lead to the creation of “designer babies”, Randox Health managing director Dr Peter FitzGerald said it was “about ensuring new lives have the healthiest outlook possible”.