One in 800 to 1,000 children are affected by
. This figure represents about 5,000 births every year. But what really is this condition- Down syndrome? Down syndrome is actually a genetic chromosomal syndrome. This condition causes irregularities or disfigurement of the child’s physical features. Mental retardation is also one of its consequences. A child born with Down syndrome has an extra third copy of chromosome 21. Down syndrome can be diagnosed prenatally diagnosed inside the mother’s womb. Several tests such as the ultrasound, CVS and amniocentesis are entailed for this. As for diagnosis after birth, Down syndrome can be ascertained by examining the baby’s facial and physical features.
Among them are a flattened face, flattened nasal bridge and snub nose. A baby with this syndrome also has a short neck, upward slanting eyes and an enlarged and protruding tongue. The baby may also have short stubby hands and feet and abnormally shaped ears. One of the common signs of
as well is when the baby doesn’t cry much. Many myths abound about the syndrome. Following are the common myths about Down syndrome debunked with facts about the different aspects of the syndrome. Many have the notion that those affected by the condition cannot be cured. But medical research has advanced, and it was able to identify that chromosome 21 is responsible for the development of the syndrome.
In the future, it is highly possible that medical science can correct this irregularity. The syndrome can then be prevented from affecting the child. Another common myth is that Down syndrome is a rare genetic disorder. But as previously mentioned, the syndrome has a wide affectation- approximately 5,000 births per year. Others also misconstrue that children with the said syndrome are severely retarded. However, studies have cited that children with Down syndrome have an IQ falling between the mild to the moderately retarded. Children with the said syndrome can be educated. But studies have not verified and documented the full educational potential of these children.
There are also those who believe that the syndrome strikes babies born to older parents. However, 80% of children born with Down syndrome are born to women less than 35 years old. As the age of the parents increases however, the higher the incidences are of children born with the said syndrome. There are those who are under the notion that people with Down syndrome have to be institutionalized. But in the recent years, children with the syndrome are seen in public places. They are with their families and are enjoying their social, educational and recreational activities. Adults with Down syndrome are also seen working in cafe’s and fast food chains.
Finally, adults with Down syndrome are unable to maintain close interpersonal relationships leading to marriage. But this is just a myth. Many adults with the syndrome are able to form relationships such as courtship and marriage. Women with the syndrome can marry and have children. However, their child has a 50% chance of acquiring
. With all these myths and facts about the said condition, educated information aims to shed light on it.
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