Final answer:
Maria and Josh's approach to dealing with the potential of muscular dystrophy should include speaking with medical professionals, educating themselves on the disorder, considering the implications of having children, and consulting a genetic counselor for a thorough understanding of their genetic risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
Taking into account Maria and Josh's situation regarding muscular dystrophy, a multifaceted approach should be considered for informed decision-making. This approach includes gathering information about the disorder, understanding genetic risks, and evaluating personal life choices. Here is a selection of actions that one might take in such a scenario:
- Talking to a doctor about muscular dystrophy and its effects to receive professional medical advice.
- Reading books, articles, and Internet sources on muscular dystrophy to educate oneself about the disease, its progression, and management options.
- Considering not having children to avoid the risk of passing on the disorder could be a choice, but it's a deeply personal decision that may change after consulting with professionals.
- Visiting a genetic counselor and having a family pedigree done to understand genetic risks and patterns.
- Asking to have genetic tests done to ascertain carrier status for specific muscular dystrophy-related gene mutations.
- Trying to locate members of the biological family to assess their medical history to gather more context on potential inherited risks.
It is crucial to understand that each option involves making well-informed decisions which can align with one's values, life plans, and the medical and genetic information available.