Are there any risk factors?
The biggest risk factor for Down’s syndrome is the age of the mother; the risk of having a baby with Down’s syndrome increases significantly with age:
- 15-29 years old: 1 in 1,500 chance
- 30-34 years old: 1 in 800 chance
- 35-39 years old: 1 in 385 chance
- 40-44 years old: 1 in 106 chance
- 45 years old: 1 in 30 chance
Older women are usually advised to have antenatal screening tests, which can be used to detect genetic conditions, blood disorders, musculoskeletal disorders and inherited conditions.
There is also some research to suggest that environmental factors may increase the risk of Down’s syndrome; possible environmental factors include:
- Exposure to pesticides
- Exposure to radioactive waste and radiation
- Smoking during pregnancy
- Proximity to landfill and waste disposal sites
There is also evidence to suggest that family history may have some influence; there is slightly higher risk if a close relative has the condition or if the mother already has a child with Down’s syndrome.
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