Downs syndrome

"Down's syndrome - Illnesses & conditions | NHS inform Home Illnesses and conditions Symptoms and self-help Tests and treatments Healthy living Care, support and rights Scotlands Service Directory 0 Home Illnesses and conditions Downs syndrome Downs syndrome A babywith Downs syndrome is born with more of chromosome 21 in some or all of the cells that make up their DNA. Its also known as Trisomy 21. People with Downs syndrome may lead active, healthy and independent lives into their 60s, 70s and beyond. Most will have mild to moderate learning disabilities and some may have more complex needs. It cannot be known before birth if a person will need any additional help and support. Living with Downs syndrome There are increasing opportunities and support in education, work and housing for people with Downs syndrome. People with Downs syndrome canlive healthy and fulfilling lives as part of their families and communities. Some may: live independently have jobs be in relationships socialise with minimal support. Evidence suggests most families of people with the condition feel satisfied with their lives. Many children with Downs syndrome attend mainstream school and receive additional support if they need it. Congenital and rare condition register Babies with Downs syndrome are included in the secure congenital and rare condition (CARDRISS) register. The register is maintained by Public Health Scotland. The register records how many babies have this condition, and some relevant personal information. Its also used to support the planning and improvement of health, care, and other public services. Read more about CARDRISS Downs syndrome and health Many children with Downs syndrome have similar health conditions to all children. Some health conditions can be more common in people with Downs syndrome, but some are less common. Around half of all children with Downs syndrome will have heart issues, although fewer than 1 in 5 of those may need surgery. Theyre more likely to have muscle tone and digestion issues and may have reduced hearing or vision. However, theyre less likely to develop some cancers and types of heart disease. Regular health checks can make sure any health conditions are picked up early and managed. Downs syndrome is not a life-limiting condition. People with the condition can lead active, healthy and fairly independent lives into their 60s, 70s and beyond. Screening for Downs syndrome During your pregnancy youll be offered a screening test to detect if your baby might have Downs syndrome. All pregnant women, no matter what age, can be tested. A blood test and nuchal translucency (NT) scan can be used to screen for this condition. Further information You can get more information about Downs syndromeand find out about life with a child with the condition at Downs Syndrome Scotland . Source:\r\n                                        Down's Syndrome Scotland - Opens in new browser window Last updated: 21 February 2024 How can we improve this page? Help us improve NHS inform Thank You Your feedback has been received Dont include personal information e.g. name, location or any personal health conditions. Email Address e.g. you@example.com Message Maximum of 500 characters Send feedback Add this page to\n            Info For Me NHS inform About NHS inform Editorial policy Contact us Webchat Give feedback about NHS inform Info for Me tool Terms and conditions Privacy and cookies policy Freedom of information (FOI) Accessibility Other languages and formats  2023 NHS 24  v1.1.1.17852"