Term Papers on Down syndrome

Down syndrome is a genetic disorder which affects roughly 1 in 700 people. This is caused by the presence of an extra chromosome 21, whether it is only a part of the extra chromosome or a whole extra chromosome (trisomy). The resulting abnormalities due to the extra chromosome can vary significantly because of genetic history, although chances can negate a genetic history devoid of Down syndrome. The disorder is named after John Down, a British physician, who first described the case in the 19^th century.

The effects of Down syndrome are widespread, including growth and development of cognitive ability. The most principal effect is neoteny, which is the lack of maturation of the brain and body, which is reason why those with this disorder have faces that resemble a young child. The syndrome has physical and mental effects, including a statistically lower ability to perform cognitive tasks, such as arithmetic and deductive reasoning. Extensive studies show that the IQ of a child with Down syndrome is 50, which is roughly half of that of normal children. However, a person with Down syndrome is not as limiting as some people presume, and those diagnosed can still achieve many things, including academic and professional success. Other effects include stunted growth, and shorter extremities and genitals.

Possible avenues of exploration

There are many interesting and controversial areas in this subject which could be addressed in your term paper. These include:

·         Morality – Modern technology now allows the detection of Down syndrome within an embryo, permitting to terminate the affected baby. This is because of the number of ailments that someone with the genetic disorder can suffer. This is a testament to the very high levels of termination of babies in this situation. However, with the right care and treatment, people can live happy and productive lives with Down syndrome. Does this make it right to proceed with abortion?

·         Health – What health implications are involved with the disorder and what practices are needed to be improved or developed for the benefit of both the carer and the patient?

·         Management – How should people with Down syndrome be monitored? What cognitive procedures can be used to improve the ability of patients?

·         Research –Research in the field of genetics is prevalent for this disorder, and biologists or geneticists will have a lot of work to write their term papers about this topic.