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Down Syndrome Research Foundation 1409 Sperling Avenue, Burnaby
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 Conference on Developmental Disabilities
 The Centre for Specialized Learning (CSL)
| Letter to the Editor of the Vancouver Sun in Reponse to: Women must now wait to 40 for publicly paid amnio test, June 9, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE See article "Women must now wait to 40 for publicly paid amnio test" by Pamela Fayerman, The Vancouver Sun Burnaby, BC – We at the Down Syndrome Research Foundation (DSRF) believe that it is a family’s right to make decisions about their pregnancy. We believe in the potential of persons with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities and it is this belief that guides our work in optimizing cognitive development, communication skills, and social and emotional development. We also believe that in order to make an informed decision, one must have as much information as possible, including the facts about the types of tests available, the accuracy of the test, and any potential risks associated with the test. If a family receives a positive screen result, meaning there is a greater chance for their child having Down syndrome, Trisomy 18 or an Open Neural Tube Defect, then they have the right to accurate and up to date information on the potential future of their child, including the opportunity to speak with professionals in the field and with other families. While diagnostic testing, including chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and amniocentesis, is almost 100% accurate, there are risks of loss of pregnancy ranging from 0.5% to 2%, depending on the test. While CVS may be performed earlier than amniocentesis, the risks are slightly higher. According to medical authorities in BC the rationale for increasing the age for amnio from 35 to 40 is to decrease the inherent risks associated with diagnostic testing, in favour of newer screens that are now more accurate, have fewer false positives and carry no risk. These newer screens include the Quad Screen (screens for four markers), the Serum Integrated Prenatal Screen (screens for five markers) and the Integrated Prenatal Screen (screens for five markers plus the Nuchal Translucency Ultrasound). Should any of these screens come back positive, then there is the option for amnio, which will be covered through the health care system. DSRF believes in a woman’s and family’s right to choose, and we are here to provide information and support so that she and her family can make an informed decision, whatever that decision may be. In the end it is the information and the experiences of other families that will guide their decision. About the Down Syndrome Research Foundation: At the DSRF we initiate and participate in research that provides insight into the unique learning style of these individuals. The data collected is analyzed and pilot interventions and educational programs are developed and offered. These programs test our understanding of the brain and are evaluated to see the impact on our students. -30- CONTACT:
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