Since the dawn of prenatal testing and selective abortion, critics and commentators have wondered whether Down syndrome will disappear from society. Experience this year suggests that it may now be happening. Continue Reading
May 28, 2013
With Down syndrome, what are we choosing to invest in?
I wrote previously about how some describe the damage of disability as the lack of support by society for individuals with disabilities. It prompts the question: with Down syndrome, what are we choosing to invest in? Continue Reading
May 22, 2013
Wrongful birth and abortion: what’s the damage of disability?
In a very moving article, Kristina Chew wrote of her son, who has autism, and whether she would have aborted him if given the chance through prenatal testing. In South Africa, a couple was awarded 4.4 million Rand (or about $440,000) precisely because they were not told prenatally their child had Down syndrome--they said they would have aborted had they known prenatally. Both stories are revealing in what they consider the damage of disability. Continue Reading
May 20, 2013
Webinar on Prenatal Testing for Down syndrome
Down Syndrome Affiliates in Action (DSAIA) has made available the webinar I presented on Down syndrome prenatal testing. The webinar covers the basics of prenatal testing, the newest form of prenatal testing for Down syndrome, the professional society statements of the ACMG, ACOG, ISPD, and NSGC, and the statements' comments on counseling about prenatal testing. The webinar is available for free to the public. You can access the webinar at this link. Register using the box on the lower left hand Continue Reading
May 15, 2013
NSGC on Down syndrome prenatal testing: What’s essential (and what’s not)
Three other professional organizations have issued statements on the newest form of prenatal testing for Down syndrome. But, the National Society of Genetic Counselors make clear what is essential information expectant mothers should receive. Continue Reading
May 14, 2013
Didn’t you get tested? The normative effect of prenatal testing undermines reproductive freedom.
Medical organizations and bioethicists justify prenatal testing out of a respect for a woman's autonomy, her ability to control her reproductive choices. But society's view of prenatal testing can undermine that freedom. A recent Salon article adds to the evidence for this concern. Continue Reading
May 6, 2013
You are not alone
Last Thursday, USA Today featured a front-age, below-the-fold story by Liz Szabo on the recent advances in Down syndrome prenatal testing. The report shares an important recommendation for those receiving a prenatal test result. Continue Reading
May 2, 2013
What are the odds that you are having a child with Down syndrome?
Here in my hometown, it's Derby week. With the greatest two minutes in sports upon us, it naturally has me thinking about odds. Indeed, prenatal testing for Down syndrome has that same focus. So, what are the odds that you are having a child with Down syndrome? Not only is this answer important, but it will surprise many. Continue Reading
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