A tool assesses the likelihood of a pregnancy being affected by Trisomy 21. The assessment often involves combining maternal age with biochemical marker measurements from maternal blood and ultrasound findings obtained during specific gestational periods. For instance, the result might indicate a “1 in 500” chance, suggesting that out of 500 pregnancies with similar marker profiles, one is expected to have Trisomy 21.
This type of evaluation offers prospective parents valuable information to inform their decision-making regarding further diagnostic testing and prenatal care. Its development represents a significant advancement in prenatal screening, allowing for earlier and more personalized risk assessment compared to relying solely on maternal age. The availability of such evaluations empowers individuals to proactively engage in their reproductive health journey.