Question
What is Down syndrome?
Answer
Down syndrome, also known as trisomy 21, is a common chromosomal abnormality disorder characterized by an extra 21st chromosome in the body’s cells. This extra chromosome can lead to a range of physiological and developmental issues, including intellectual disability, distinctive facial features, and heart defects. The incidence of Down syndrome in live births is approximately 1 in 800 to 1 in 1,000. Advanced maternal age (35 years and older) is a high-risk factor for Down syndrome, and therefore, prenatal screening is often recommended.