What causes Down’s syndrome?
Down’s syndrome is a genetic condition which results from an additional chromosome 21 in the cells. A healthy person should inherit 46 chromosomes, 23 from their mother and 23 from their father; people with Down’s syndrome inherit an additional extra chromosome 21 in each cell.
Some people are carriers of translocation Down’s syndrome and they pass the condition onto their child; male carriers have a 1 in 35 chance of passing on the condition, while female carriers have a 1 in 8 chance of passing it on.
The reason why some people inherit extra chromosomes is not known; however, some risk factors have been identified; these are listed below.
FAQS Index : Down's Syndrome
- What is Down’s syndrome?
- Are there different forms of Down’s syndrome?
- What causes Down’s syndrome?
- Are there any risk factors?
- What are the symptoms of Down’s syndrome?
- What are the effects of Down’s syndrome?
- What treatments are available for Down’s syndrome?
- How common is Down’s syndrome?
- Is it possible to detect Down’s syndrome during pregnancy?
- Is there any help or support available for people with Down’s syndrome?
Down's Syndrome Guide
- Down's Syndrome
- How is Down’s syndrome diagnosed?
- What are the symptoms of Down’s syndrome?
- In what way does Down’s syndrome affect development?
- What treatment is available for Down’s syndrome?
- What health complications are associated with Down’s syndrome?
- Living with Down’s syndrome
- Down’s syndrome FAQ