A survey of Down's syndrome under general practitioner care in Scotland

Abstract

A survey of all general practitioners in Scotland has revealed details of 1,251 individuals with Down's syndrome being cared for by their family doctor; 1,150 were living at home.

Eighty-two per cent of doctors responded to the questionnaire. High prevalence rates have been noted in the Western Isles and in Shetland. The survey confirms reports of a lowering of maternal and paternal age in Down's syndrome; 72 per cent of the mothers and 56 per cent of the fathers of Down's syndrome children born since 1971 were under 35 years at the time of birth. The survey also revealed an increase in the number of Down's people living with either one parent or relatives with increasing age. It is hoped that further research will be carried out into the problems facing Down's individuals and their families through the medium of general practice.