Causes of Down Syndrome

Question

If a pregnancy test indicates a possible Down syndrome, what are the causes of this condition?

Answer

Down syndrome, also known as trisomy 21, is caused by an extra 21st chromosome and is the most common chromosomal disorder. The causes include advanced or early pregnancy age, genetic factors, the use of chemical drugs for abortion in the early stages of pregnancy, radiation exposure, autoimmune diseases, and viral infections. The incidence of Down syndrome in live births is approximately 1.6‰ to 1.2‰ and increases with the mother’s age. Patients usually suffer from severe intellectual disabilities and developmental deficiencies, making independent living impossible, and may also be accompanied by complex cardiovascular diseases or malformations.