Down syndrome is the most commonly recognized genetic cause of mental retardation. The risk of trisomy 21 is directly related to maternal age which can be viewed as the first screening test in the 1970's. New strategies for Down syndrom, have emerged with higher sensitivity and lower false-positive rate. These strategies are based on sonographic and maternal serum markers. The most specific but complex strategy is based on the integrated test, i.e., the integration of the quadruple test performed in the second trimester to the first trimester combined screening: for a 85% detection rate, the false positive rate is estimated to 0.9%. This strategy deprives the patient of an early diagnosis. Alternatives strategies do exist which can perform similar detection rate but with increasing false positive rate. To date Down syndrom, screening has not been coordinated by a national body; it would be usefull to ensure the sonographist formation, perform quality audit and decrease variations in practice.
Although feeding difficulties in infants with Down syndrome are described in the literature, the experiences of parents regarding the feeding problems of their infants are largely omitted. In order to promote closer collaboration with families and speech-language therapists in early communication intervention, the study investigated some experiences of a group of parents concerning the feeding problems of their infants with Down syndrome. A descriptive survey approach was implemented to collect quantitative data. The results revealed the type of feeding problems and associated conditions occurring in the infants of the twenty participants; the type of feeding methods used; the assistance received during the feeding problems; the emotions experienced in relation to the feeding problems in their infants as well as suggestions made by the participants regarding the management of early feeding problems. Numerous feeding problems occurred in the infants and the variety of emotions experienced by the participants indicated that feeding therapy and counseling were required. As a result of the different conditions underlying the feeding problems of the participants' infants, a comprehensive approach, which included therapeutic and medical intervention, was necessary. In order to provide effective early communication intervention services from birth, the results indicated that the knowledge, skills and sensitivity of speech language therapists to identify caregiver needs, to provide appropriate family-focused intervention and to make recommendations regarding the management of feeding problems in infants with Down syndrome is of great importance.
