Those who live with Down syndrome (Downs) have normal lives even if they may have a few characteristics that are different from those who do not. There are many types of Down syndrome, symptoms, diagnostic tests, and complications that characterize people who have Downs. But as shown, they are not as different to everyone else as some people may think, besides the extra 21st chromosome and a few other features. These can include physical characteristics, intellectual struggles, and a few diseases that they are more susceptible to. However, these difficulties can be cured and helped with medication, tutoring, and other forms of aid. Even if it may take them longer than those who do not have Down syndrome to learn these skills, they will eventually
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In fact, just a generation ago, those who had Downs lived to only 25 years old, and now they average 60 years old (Szabo). Many of them graduate high school, attend college, get married, and have a job just like everyone else (Szabo). By educating people on the minor differences and facts about people who have Down syndrome, hopefully the stereotypes about them will change, and won't be looked down upon anymore by society. In fact, there is only a few genetic, physical, and intellectual differences between those who have Down syndrome and those who do not. Down syndrome is caused by a random mistake when cells divide which results in an extra copy of chromosome 21. This error is called nondisjunction, and it is completely random during the formation of the egg or the sperm. In fact, there has never been any environmental factor or anything that the parents have done preconception to cause their child to have Down syndrome. The majority of people with Down …show more content…
During pregnancy, there are two tests that can be performed to see if there are any chances of that child having Down syndrome. A Prenatal Screening Test is the first step at discovering whether or not the baby has Down syndrome, but it has to be within the first trimester. This test includes a blood test which looks for specific proteins that increase the likelihood of this syndrome, and an ultrasound which can detect fluid on the back of the neck, which is also a characteristic of those with Downs. The blood test can also be taken during the second trimester, and a combined test of the blood and ultrasound can be used, during either the first or second trimester. Secondly, a Prenatal Diagnostic Test can be used, but only after the screening test. This is when they remove a sample of genetic material to check for any extra material in chromosome 21 (“How do health care”). Even though this may help with detecting all forms of Down syndrome, it is especially vital to noticing Translocation Trisomy 21, since an extra piece sticks onto the chromosome. Because this test does have a possibility of complications, it is required to have the other test done first, to prevent this risk of complications. After the child is born, they are then diagnosed initially based on physical signs that were mentioned above. Then, they take a sample blood test to confirm this diagnosis by identifying the
In fact, just a generation ago, those who had Downs lived to only 25 years old, and now they average 60 years old (Szabo). Many of them graduate high school, attend college, get married, and have a job just like everyone else (Szabo). By educating people on the minor differences and facts about people who have Down syndrome, hopefully the stereotypes about them will change, and won't be looked down upon anymore by society. In fact, there is only a few genetic, physical, and intellectual differences between those who have Down syndrome and those who do not. Down syndrome is caused by a random mistake when cells divide which results in an extra copy of chromosome 21. This error is called nondisjunction, and it is completely random during the formation of the egg or the sperm. In fact, there has never been any environmental factor or anything that the parents have done preconception to cause their child to have Down syndrome. The majority of people with Down …show more content…
During pregnancy, there are two tests that can be performed to see if there are any chances of that child having Down syndrome. A Prenatal Screening Test is the first step at discovering whether or not the baby has Down syndrome, but it has to be within the first trimester. This test includes a blood test which looks for specific proteins that increase the likelihood of this syndrome, and an ultrasound which can detect fluid on the back of the neck, which is also a characteristic of those with Downs. The blood test can also be taken during the second trimester, and a combined test of the blood and ultrasound can be used, during either the first or second trimester. Secondly, a Prenatal Diagnostic Test can be used, but only after the screening test. This is when they remove a sample of genetic material to check for any extra material in chromosome 21 (“How do health care”). Even though this may help with detecting all forms of Down syndrome, it is especially vital to noticing Translocation Trisomy 21, since an extra piece sticks onto the chromosome. Because this test does have a possibility of complications, it is required to have the other test done first, to prevent this risk of complications. After the child is born, they are then diagnosed initially based on physical signs that were mentioned above. Then, they take a sample blood test to confirm this diagnosis by identifying the