Causes and Diagnosis of Down Syndrome

The primary cause of Down syndrome is the presence of an extra chromosome 21, which occurs due to a random error in cell division called nondisjunction. This extra genetic material affects the development of the individual. Down syndrome can be diagnosed during pregnancy through prenatal screening tests, including blood tests and ultrasound, or after birth through physical examination and genetic testing. Understanding the causes and diagnostic methods is crucial for early intervention and support.

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