Down syndrome, also called trisomy 21, is defined as a condition in which a person is born with an extra chromosome. Chromosomes are small ‘packages’ of genes that play an integral role in the form and function of a baby during pregnancy and after birth. Under normal conditions, a baby is born with 46 chromosomes. However, a child with Down syndrome has an extra set of chromosomes that can cause physical and mental challenges in the infant. The syndrome is named after the British doctor John Langdon Down, who gave a full description of the syndrome in 1866 and helped to differentiate the condition from mental retardation.Also read – Stealth Omicron vs Omicron vs Delta variant – Learn the features and differences in addition
A baby born with Down syndrome may behave or look like other babies, but they usually have a slightly lower IQ (measure of intelligence) and are slower to speak. Some of the standard physical symptoms of children with Down syndrome include flattened face, especially nose bridge, almond shaped eyes that are oblique, short neck, small ears, arms and legs, small white spots (colored part) on iris. Eye and weak muscle tone or loose joints. In India, Down syndrome affects approximately 23,000-29,000 children each year. Although the numbers are worrisome, there is very little awareness about this condition. Below are five facts you should know about Down Syndrome. Also read – Include these 6 healthy lifestyle habits to avoid obstructive sleep apnea
- According to the World Health Organization, Down syndrome is estimated to be 1 in 1,1000 live births worldwide.
- Eighty percent of children have either Down syndrome or Trisomy 21. Babies with Down syndrome are usually born in mothers younger than 35 years. According to the National Down Syndrome Society, a 35-year-old woman has a 1 in 350 chance of conceiving a child with Down syndrome. By contrast, the chances are 1 in 100 by age 40 and 1 in 30 by age 45.
- Trisomy 21 and mosaicism are forms of Down syndrome and are not inherited from parents. These cases of Down syndrome occur because random cell division occurs during the development of the child. In addition, there are two basic tests available to detect Down syndrome during pregnancy: a screening test and a diagnostic test. Neither screening nor diagnostic tests can predict the full effect of Down syndrome on a baby, and it is not possible to know this until the baby is born and diagnosed by specialists.
- Babies with Down syndrome who have congenital heart defects have a higher risk of death in the first year of life than babies who do not have heart problems. They also have an increased risk of sleep apnea, hearing disorders and ear infections.
- Early intervention is important for cases of Down syndrome. Although not treatable, it is possible to improve quality of life through treatment programs that include physical, speech and occupational therapy, life skills classes and educational opportunities.
In conclusion, babies born with Down syndrome today have a better chance of living a quality life because the treatments and therapies are getting better every day. In addition, an increased understanding of the preventive measures and complications associated with this condition enables caregivers, teachers, and doctors to anticipate and plan for the long term. If you feel that your newborn is showing signs of Down Syndrome, we recommend that you consult a specialist as timely diagnosis is extremely important to avoid any future complications. Also read – Covid-19 vaccination begins for children in the 12-14 age group – watch the video
(With inputs from Dr. Subhash Rao, Consultant-Pediatrics, Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi-A Fortis Network Hospital)
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