Election season shines national spotlight on Down Syndrome

The introduction of Sarah Palin into this year's presidential race has probably caught your attention, regardless of your political leanings.  Palin, who originally hails from right here in Sandpoint, recently gave birth to a four-month old son with Down syndrome.  While not the focus of her campaign platform, Down syndrome is now receiving heightened national attention. 

Down syndrome is a genetic condition that causes delays in physical and intellectual development. Individuals with Down syndrome have 47 chromosomes instead of the usual 46.  According to the National Down Syndrome Society, the condition occurs in approximately one in every 733 live births.

Down syndrome is usually identified at birth or shortly thereafter based on certain physical characteristics such as low muscle tone, a slightly flattened facial profile and an upward slant to the eyes. The diagnosis is then confirmed by a chromosome study which examines blood or tissue cells.  Down syndrome is usually caused by an error in cell division.  Although it is not known why this error occurs, experts have concluded that it happens at conception and is not related to anything the mother does during pregnancy.

Most children with Down syndrome have mild to moderate impairments, but specialists and parents alike are quick to point out that they are more like other children than they are different. With early intervention services such as physical, speech and developmental therapies, many children attend their neighborhood schools, some in regular classes and others in special education classes. Many adults with Down syndrome are capable of working in the community, although some require a more structured environment.

Children with Down syndrome tend to experience health complications beyond the usual childhood illnesses, such as congenital heart defects.  They also have a higher incidence of infection, respiratory, thyroid, vision, hearing and other medical problems. However, with proper medical care many children and adults with Down syndrome can lead healthy lives. While the average life expectancy of individuals with Down syndrome is 55 years, many live into their sixties and seventies.

Pre-natal tests are available to pregnant women to evaluate the risk that a newborn will have Down syndrome.  If you are pregnant, and particularly if you're over 35, be sure to talk with your doctor about this condition to determine what testing is right for you.  As with all medical conditions, there's no substitute for becoming educated about the facts.

Lynda Metz is the director of community development at Bonner General Hospital. The information in this article was provided courtesy of the National Down Syndrome Society.