Understanding Down Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Jakarta: Down syndrome, also known as Trisomy 21, is a genetic disorder that occurs due to the presence of extra genetic material on the 21st chromosome. This disorder causes differences in physical and mental development, as well as poor learning abilities in sufferers.

Down syndrome or Down syndrome is a disorder that often occurs. Every year, according to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), it is estimated that as many as 3000 to 5000 babies are born with Down syndrome, which is a common genetic disorder.

Causes of Down’s Syndrome

Doctor Pittara via Allodoctor said that the cause of Down Syndrome occurs when there is an additional copy of chromosome 21. There are three types of Down Syndrome, namely trisomy 21, mosaic, and translocation.

– Trisomy 21

Trisomy 21 is the most common type, in which every cell of the body has an extra copy of chromosome 21.

– Mosaic

In the mosaic type, the extra copy of chromosome 21 is present in only a few cells. So that the characteristics of Down syndrome do not appear as clearly as in trisomy 21.

– Translocation

This type of translocation involves an extra copy of chromosome 21 attached to another chromosome. Down’s syndrome is a type of translocation that can be passed from parent to child.

Down syndrome symptoms

– Palms that have only one crease.
– Eyes slanted up and out.
– Weight and length at birth below the usual weight.
– Small mouth.
– Small nasal passages and flat nasal bones.
– Wide hands with short fingers.
– Short stature.
– Has a small head.
– Tongue sticking out.
– There is a wide distance between the first and second toes.
– People with Down syndrome also tend to have less learning ability and experience delays in physical development such as walking and talking.

Down’s Syndrome Treatment

Because Down syndrome cannot be treated, family members must be active in providing a normal life for those with the condition. The following are steps that can be taken if a family member has Down syndrome or Down syndrome.

– Make sure they get access to good health care.
– Get involved in programs that support children with Down syndrome.
– Join an organization that provides education and support for exchanging information.
– Strive to keep family life as good and normal as possible.

How to prevent Down Syndrome

If you have a family member with Down’s Syndrome or are planning a pregnancy after having previously had a child with this disorder, it is advisable for you to consider genetic testing.

Down syndrome is still one of the most common genetic disorders and requires special attention from families and society. With a better understanding of Down Syndrome, it is hoped that the sufferer can lead a better and more fulfilling life.

Fauzi Pratama Ramadhan
(FIR)