Question
What is the average lifespan of patients with Down syndrome? Is it possible for them to grow up healthily?
Answer
Approximately 250 children with Down syndrome may die within one year, and half of them may live much longer with proper medical care. However, they generally die within five years, and many may live longer if treated appropriately, reaching adulthood. Therefore, they should receive active treatment. If screening tests indicate a high risk of fetal Down syndrome, further diagnostic tests should be conducted – such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling.