The Horizon 14 test is a genetic carrier screening test that helps couples determine the risk of passing on serious genetic conditions to their child. It’s offered by Natera, Inc. and uses next-generation sequencing technology to screen for 15 genes associated with 15 conditions:
Alpha-thalassemia
Beta-hemoglobinopathies, including sickle-cell anemia
Canavan disease
Cystic fibrosis
Duchenne/Becker muscular dystrophy
Familial dysautonomia
Fragile X syndrome
Galactosemia
Gaucher disease
Medium Chain Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase Deficiency
Polycystic kidney disease, autosomal recessive
Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome
Spinal muscular atrophy
Tay-Sachs disease
The Horizon 14 test can be performed before or during pregnancy.
Providers reference ESGC recommendation form 2023 that expanded carrier screening should be offered to all who are currently pregnant. considering pregnancy or might otherwise biologically contribute to pregnancy. the reason for this recommendation is to “identify more recessive and X-lingked conditions and eliminate a single race based medical practice”.
ACOG takes a similar position in 2024.
Cuckle H, Maymon R. Development of prenatal screening–A historical overview. Semin Perinatol. 2016 Feb;40(1):12-22.
Sagaser KG, Malinowski J, Westerfield L, Proffitt J, Hicks MA, Toler TL, Blakemore KJ, Stevens BK, Oakes LM. Expanded carrier screening for reproductive risk assessment: An evidence-based practice guideline from the National Society of Genetic Counselors. J Genet Couns. 2023 Jun;32(3):540-557.
ACOG Current Guidance 2023- https://www.acog.org/advocacy/policy-priorities/non-invasive-prenatal-testing/current-acog-guidance Accesssed 12/27/2024