It is very important to clarify and ensure that people understand that Down Syndrome, also known as Trisomy 21, is not a disease or virus but in fact a genetic disorder where an extra copy of Chromosome 21 is created by mutation during cell division. Therefore there is no cure or treatment for Down Syndrome as it is a life long condition and not an illness.
How does the Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21) Chromosome mutation occur?
There are numerous genetic mutations where three copies of a chromosome are created during cell division rather than the normal pair of two chromosomes. These mutations are grouped together under the term “Trisomy”. These mutations are random events that occur during cell division where an error sometimes occurs which is known as “Nondisjunction”. This error during seperation can occur in either the sperm or the egg.
Is there any treatment for Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21) during pregnancy?
As Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21) is a genetic condition there is no treatment for it before, during or after conception. While there are various scanning and blood tests available to determine if an unborn child has Down Syndrome there is no cure.
Key Takeaway
Each child born with Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21) will have a very different set of medical conditions as a result of the genetic mutation, which will have their own treatments or cures. But Down Syndrome as an umbrella term is a life long condition that does not have a cure or treatment.
