Risk Of Down Syndrome By Age Chart Uk
Down syndrome is a genetic condition that affects one in every 1,000 babies born in the UK. It is caused by the presence of an extra chromosome 21 in the baby’s cells. The condition is usually diagnosed during pregnancy, and parents may choose to undergo genetic counselling to understand the risks and options available to them.
What is the Risk of Down Syndrome?
The risk of having a baby with Down syndrome increases with the mother’s age. According to the NHS, the risk is:
- 1 in 1,500 for women aged 20
- 1 in 900 for women aged 25
- 1 in 350 for women aged 35
- 1 in 100 for women aged 40
- 1 in 30 for women aged 45
However, it’s important to note that these are just average risks. Some women may have a higher or lower risk based on their individual circumstances.
What Factors Affect the Risk?
There are several factors that can affect the risk of having a baby with Down syndrome:
- Age: As mentioned, the risk increases with the mother’s age.
- Familial history: If there is a history of Down syndrome in the family, the risk may be higher.
- Previous pregnancy: If the mother has had a previous pregnancy with Down syndrome, the risk may be higher.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid problems, can increase the risk.
How is Down Syndrome Diagnosed?
There are two types of tests that can be done to diagnose Down syndrome:
- Screening tests: These tests are done during pregnancy to assess the risk of having a baby with Down syndrome. They include blood tests and ultrasound scans.
- Diagnostic tests: These tests are more invasive and carry a small risk of miscarriage. They include amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling (CVS).
What Are the Options for Parents?
If Down syndrome is diagnosed during pregnancy, parents may choose to continue with the pregnancy or terminate it. This is a personal decision and should be made based on the individual circumstances of the family.
Parents who choose to continue with the pregnancy can prepare for the arrival of their baby and seek support from healthcare professionals and support groups. There are many resources available to help parents raise a child with Down syndrome.
Conclusion
The risk of having a baby with Down syndrome increases with the mother’s age, but there are many factors that can affect the risk. It’s important for parents to understand the risks and options available to them, and to make a decision that is right for their family. With the right support, parents can raise a child with Down syndrome and provide a happy and fulfilling life for their child.