Figures from the National Down Syndrome Cytogenetic Register show that the proportion of children born with Down’s Syndrome rose by 15% from 2000 to 2006. After the introduction of widespread screening for Down’s Syndrome in 1989 the number of babies born each year in the UK with the condition, fell from 717 to 594 at the start of this decade. However since 2000 the birth rate has been rising, reaching 749 in 2008, the latest year this information is available for.

One in 1000 babies born has Down’s Syndrome, an incurable genetic disorder caused by an extra chromosome. Children with the syndrome may have heart defects, poor sight and hearing as well as differing degrees of learning disability A blood test or ultrasound scan can identify if a pregnant woman is at risk of having a child with Down’s Syndrome, and this can be followed by more invasive tests. These include taking samples of fluid from the womb (amniocentesis) or placenta (chorionic villae sampling). These tests would show conclusively whether the child has the syndrome and a decision made as to whether to continue the pregnancy.

It would appear from information gathered from parents by the Down’s Syndrome Association that parents now consider the quality of life for people with Down’s Syndrome is much better than in the past and that they are more accepted in society. Mainstream education plays a big role in inclusion of children. Parents are thinking more carefully before opting for prenatal screening and termination.

The programme follows three parents in Leeds who have given birth to babies with Down’s Syndrome.

For further information on the findings of the programme please follow the leads below:

http://www.downs-syndrome.org.uk/news-and-media/dsa-news/488-bbc-radio-4.html

http://www.downs-syndrome.org.uk/news-and-media/press-releases/2008.html