THE TRIPLE TEST AND DOWN SYNDROME: BETWEEN FETICIDE AND THERAPEUTIC ABORTION
THE TRIPLE TEST AND DOWN SYNDROME: BETWEEN FETICIDE AND THERAPEUTIC ABORTION

Summary/Abstract: Down syndrome (DS) or Down’s syndrome, also known as trisomy 21, is a genetic disorder caused by the presence of all or part of a third copy of chromosome 21. Down syndrome is the most common chromosome abnormality in humans and represents a complex multifaceted disorder with multiple medical and bioethical implications. Thereby, it is typically associated with physical growth delays, a particular set of facial characteristics and an important degree of intellectual disability. The average full-scale IQ of young adults with Down syndrome is around 50. A number of tests can be used to screen for Down syndrome, with varying levels of accuracy and invasiveness. Several blood markers can be measured that can be used as part of combined tests to predict the risk of Down syndrome. Abortion after 12 weeks and called therapeutic abortion may be performed only due to precise medical cause. Down syndrome is not included in the categories of conditions that justify interruption of the pregnancy by therapeutic grounds. Still, most parents decide the interruption of the pregnancy in the case of finding out about the probability of having a child with Down syndrome.

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