Question

At what maternal age does the risk of Down's syndrome significantly increase?

Options

• Below 20 years

• Between 20-30 years

• Above 45 years only

• Above 35 years

Answer 1

The risk of Down's syndrome is higher in older mothers, especially those above 35 years of age. Advanced maternal age is a well-established risk factor for chromosomal disorders, particularly trisomy 21, due to age-related changes in oocyte meiosis and increased likelihood of non-disjunction.