Down Syndrome Children

The Scope and Limitations of This Disorder

Sep 9, 2008

Down Syndrome, also called trisomy 21, is a serious chromosomal disorder that causes limitations and abnormalities in affected children. The range of severity can vary.

Down Syndrome occurs when either a part or a whole extra chromosome is copied into normal genetic material at conception. This is the extra "21st" chromosome. Because there is a wide range of gene mutation, there is also a wide variability in individual symptoms.

Physical Features and Health Defects Due to Down Syndrome

Again, the range of disability for those with Down syndrome varies greatly. Some have mild to moderate learning disabilities, for example, while others have severe mental disability. It is believed that early medical treatment, physical therapy, intervention programs, individual evaluation, speech therapy, communication therapy, and educational and parental support can delay the more major consequences of Down syndrome. Some communities foster housing programs to assist Down syndrome adults in everyday life.

Causes of Down Syndrome

Down syndrome occurs in every part of the world, in every ethnic group and economic class. One major factor, which increases the chance of conceiving a Down syndrome child, is advanced maternal age. According to Wikipedia, between maternal ages 20-24, the probability of having a baby with Down syndrome is 1/1562; between ages 35-39 the probability jumps to 1/214; and if the mother is above age 45 her risk jumps to 1/19. Increased paternal age can also increase the risk of Down syndrome.

Screening for Down Syndrome

Women, especially women over 35, are often screened for Down syndrome through their obstetricians. Some screening tests include amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling (CVS), or cord blood sampling. However, it is important to remember that some tests can screen a false positive, requiring further testing before a diagnosis of Down syndrome is verified.

Ethical Problems Concerning Down Syndrome Fetuses

According to recent studies, at least 90% of Down syndrome pregnancies are terminated through elective abortion. However, since genetic testing can render false positives, this can be a concern. Deciding whether or not to follow through with a pregnancy when carrying a Down syndrome fetus is a personal, individual, and emotional choice that should not be considered lightly. Parents should discuss the matter with their physician, a counselor, clergyman, or other trusted person.

Other Factors in Raising A Child With Down Syndrome

Raising a child with Down syndrome can be emotionally and physically challenging. However, many parents of Down syndrome children attest to the great rewards of parenting a child with special needs. Still others regret putting their family or other children through the responsibility of caring for someone with a disability.

While children with disabilities and mental retardation were often institutionalized prior to the 20th century, children and adults with Down syndrome can now participate in mainstream society. They will, however, most likely encounter discrimination in the larger social sphere. Dealing with discrimination can often be frustrating and discouraging. Participation in support groups can be essential.

Down syndrome children suffer from a variety of mental, physical, and cognitive disabilities. Women at risk for carrying a Down syndrome baby often undergo genetic counseling, and may or may not decide to carry their fetus to term. There are many ethical and social ramifications concerning Down syndrome babies, which are widely debated in society today.

The copyright of the article Down Syndrome Children in Disabilities is owned by Abby Deliz. Permission to republish Down Syndrome Children in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.