Health Problems of Children with Down Syndrome

There are a number of attendant medical problems with Down syndrome, so regular medical care is vital for these kids.

• Almost half of babies with Down syndrome have heart defects.
• About 10 percent of babies with Down syndrome are born with intestinal malformations that require surgery.
• More than 50 percent have some visual or hearing impairment, and the syndrome may also cause some hearing loss due to fluid in the middle ear, a nerve defect or both. Therefore, children with Down syndrome should have regular vision and hearing examinations so any problems can be treated before they hinder development of language and other skills.
• Children with Down syndrome tend to have many colds and ear infections, as well as bronchitis and pneumonia.
• They also are at increased risk of thyroid problems and leukemia.