Posted on 11/10/2005 11:42:40 AM PST by WmShirerAdmirer
Earlier Diagnosis Allows More Time for Decisions
A first-trimester screening test can reliably identify fetuses likely to be born with Down syndrome, providing expectant women with that information much earlier in a pregnancy than current testing allows, according to a major study being released today.
The eagerly awaited study of more than 38,000 U.S. women -- the largest ever conducted -- found that the screening method, which combines a blood test with an ultrasound exam, can pinpoint many fetuses with the common genetic disorder 11 weeks after conception. That allows women to decide sooner whether to undergo the riskier follow-up testing needed to confirm the diagnosis.
"This is a big deal for women. It's going to have a big impact on care for women, not just in the United States but throughout the world," said Fergal D. Malone of the Royal College of Surgeons in Dublin, who led the study published in today's issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.
Screening women before the second trimester allows those who might opt to terminate a pregnancy to make that decision when doctors say an abortion is safer and less traumatic. It also gives those who want to continue the pregnancy more time to prepare emotionally for their child's condition, and provides earlier reassurance to those whose babies are healthy, avoiding weeks of anxiety, Malone and others said.
"This is huge," said Catherine Y. Spong of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, which funded the $15 million eight-year study.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, which issues influential recommendations for prenatal screening, will update its advice to reflect the findings, officials said.
Word of the study triggered criticism from opponents of abortion, however, as well as from those who object to its use to prevent...
(Excerpt) Read more at washingtonpost.com ...
That where you and I have to agree to disagree.
I never knew this was an Irish thing
I became aware of their "Unconditional Love" gift when I did some volunteer work with the Special Olympics.
These kids are really something else in their abililties.
However, I would have to support these tests and a parents right to decide what to do. Its not for everyone.
They'll murder the special babies.
The Irish use the term "gifted" to describe children with Down syndrome.
In fact, yeah, I WAS thinking of them.
susie
Delightful quote from further down in the story. Isn't it terrible when that inconvenient "fetus" starts kicking in the womb? Gives women unnecessary guilt when they make the "decision" go off to kill it.
Even with the "old" test, upwards of 80% of these precious children never breathe their first breath.
I shudder when I consider the implications this cheapening of life will ultimately have on our society.
Nope, but apparently your mother was.
Liberal decisions: Hmm...what shoes will I wear today? Do I eat cake or cauliflower? Should I kill my offspring or graciously allow it to live?
That explains alot. Nice to see you carry on her good works.
Those nails must really cause you pain.
I've had experience teaching a couple kids with Down's syndrome through an inclusion program in a public school. They were truly wonderful kids, and contribute more to society than a lot of people with twice their measured I.Q..
Best wishes.
Cordially,
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.