Loading ...Down Syndrome – What You Need To Know
There are a couple of factors that enhances the danger of Down syndrome. In a layman’s term, Down syndrome refers to a genetic ailment that is acquired during the gestation period and lasts for a lifetime. It is triggered by chromosomal oddities which show up while the fetus is still growing in the mother’s womb. In essence, the two main factors that enhance the chances of a developing fetus to acquire Down syndrome are:
- The age of the mother.
- Family record of the disorder.
If there is a record of Down syndrome in your family, you could be a carrier and pass the ailment down to your unborn child. History of Down syndrome in the family has been identified as the number one cause of Down syndrome.
Several studies carried out by numerous doctors worldwide have revealed that a woman that decides to get a child in her later years (i.e. 35 years and above) is more likely to give birth to a child with Down syndrome. The risks are said to increase with every passing year. There are a number of examinations that can be carried out while the woman is still pregnant so as to determine the dangers of the child being born with Down syndrome. These tests are carried with an aim of providing the woman with as much details as possible regarding the condition. However, there are tests that can turn out to be false. In such instances, the physician may request to additional examination so as to make a conclusive report.
As stated earlier, other than the age of the woman, the other risk of getting a child with Down syndrome hinges on family history. In case there is a family member that was born with Down syndrome, there are likelihoods that the parent could be a carrier of the gene, and as such pass it to their unborn child. In case your brother or sister was born with Down syndrome, there is the likelihood that the condition will appear once more when you start your own family.
Other than the age of a woman and the family history, there are no other known factors that can lead to a child being born with Down syndrome. There are a number of studies that have been carried out in regards to Down syndrome and none of them has yielded positive results. A number of doctors and scientists believe that Down syndrome can happen out of the blue. Detailed queries in respect to the risk factors as well as one’s genetic predisposition to Down syndrome ought to be directed to your physician. Your physician is in a better position to offer precise recommendation plus information in respect to what you can expect while parenting a child that has been born with Down syndrome as well as detailed medical concerns which can be linked to Down syndrome.
Therefore if you are planning on having a child and you are aged 35 and above, you need to consult your doctor.
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