Down Syndrome Hs Paper

Down syndrome, also known as trisomy 21, is one of many genetic mutations. It is caused by an extra 21st chromosome. This extra chromosome can cause mental and physical retardation. Most cases of this disease are not hereditary but seemingly random. Roughly one person out of six hundred and ninety people has this disease.

The symptoms of Down syndrome are mostly noticeable. Some physical symptoms include slanted eyes, irregularly shaped mouth and tongue, and a “pushed in” looking nasal bridge. There are also many possible health problems related to this disease; such as heart defects, intellectual disabilities, depression or behavioral problems such as autism/ ADHD, hearing issues, and hypothyroidism. Also respiratory infections are more likely to occur. Most of the symptoms can be controlled with medications.

Sadly there is no known cure for Down syndrome. Doctors however, try to treat the symptoms and manage any possible medical conditions a child might have. This usually includes regular checkups and screenings, medications, and/ or surgery if necessary. Support groups and counseling also help provide coping.

With the advances in modern day technology doctors can sometimes tell if a baby will be born with Down syndrome. Some of these methods include looking for abnormalities on an ultrasound, blood tests done to the mother, and amniocentesis or chorionic villi sampling tests. With this information women may decide to give up their children. This may cause disputes on whether or not this decision is an ethnical or moral thing to do.

Citations:(Healthwise, Inc., 2011; U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2012)

Healthwise, Inc. (2011, July 20). Down Syndrome-Symptoms. Web MD. Medical Reference. Retrieved October 25, 2012, from http://children.webmd.com/tc/down-syndrome-symptoms

U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2012, October). Down syndrome - Genetics Home Reference. Genetics Home Reference. reference. Retrieved October 25, 2012, from...