Which health issue is more prevalent in individuals with Down syndrome?

Individuals with Down syndrome have a significantly higher prevalence of congenital heart defects compared to the general population. Studies indicate that around 40-50% of individuals with Down syndrome have some form of heart defect, which can range from mild to severe. These can include conditions such as atrioventricular septal defects, ventricular septal defects, and patent ductus arteriosus.

The increased incidence of heart defects in this population is primarily due to the genetic factors associated with Down syndrome, specifically the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21, which affects the development of the heart during early embryonic growth. Health management for individuals with Down syndrome commonly includes monitoring and addressing heart conditions, making this an important consideration in their overall healthcare.

While obesity, thyroid problems, and allergies can also occur in individuals with Down syndrome, they do not present with the same level of prevalence as heart defects.