Down Syndrome Life Expectancy

Down Syndrome Life Expectancy

Down Syndrome Life Expectancy
written by: George Butler

Down syndrome is a condition that is genetic and it causes delays in both intellectual and physical development. In live births this condition is found in about one out of every 691. Those who have this condition are found to have one less chromosome than other people. This is the chromosome disorder that is the most frequent. Down syndrome life expectancy is shorter as well.

Most people who have this condition are diagnosis when they are born and those who aren't are diagnosed shortly after.The initial diagnosis is concluded by the characteristic of the physical appearance. The characteristics that are found most often are eyes that are slanted upwards, a facial profile that is flattened, the palm of the hand has a single crease, and there is low muscle tone. However, to get a diagnosis that is certain there needs to be a chromosome study preformed.

This condition is usually caused by there being an error when it comes to cell division. The error that occurs is not related to what the mother does it happens when conception takes place. This condition has a higher rate of occurring as the mother increases in age. However, eighty percent of all cases are from women who are under the age of 35.

It is not uncommon for a child with Down syndrome to have more health problems than the typical child. Down syndrome life expectancy is shorter as well. Around forty percent of the people with this condition actually have some congenital heart defects. All newborns that are thought to have this condition are recommended to undergo an echo-cardiogram. Some of these defects will require surgery and others need to simply be monitored closely. Another complication with this condition is that there is a higher rate of hearing and vision problems, respiratory problems, infection, thyroid problems, and other conditions.

Many people who have down syndrome will live to be in their 60's or 70's but the average down syndrome life expectancy is 55 years of age. With proper treatment of health problems those who have this condition will be able to lead lives that are healthy.

It is important for a person with this condition to see a doctor regularly for their health problems. This will help to increase their quality of life. If they have health problems that could be life threatening then all necessary appointments and treatments should be undergone to correct the issue to help them live longer more fulfilling lives.

A person with Down syndrome is really no different than anyone else. They are actually more like everyone else than they are different. They have learning delays in most cases and suffer a more increased chance of having other medical conditions but other than that they are no different. Down syndrome life expectancy is shorter as well.

There is some testing that can be done with a mother is still pregnant to determine if the child she is carrying is likely to have Down syndrome. This type of test can help families with being able to prepare for what they can expect before the child is even born and in some cases this is really helpful to the families.