Edwards syndrome facts for kids

Trisomy 18, also known as Edwards syndrome, is a genetic disorder. This means it's a condition caused by a change in a person's genes or chromosomes. People with Edwards syndrome have an extra copy of chromosome 18. Usually, people have two copies of each chromosome, but those with Edwards syndrome have three copies of chromosome 18.

What is Edwards Syndrome?

Understanding Chromosomes

Our bodies are made of tiny building blocks called cells. Inside each cell are structures called chromosomes. Chromosomes carry our genes, which are like instructions that tell our bodies how to grow and work. Most people have 23 pairs of chromosomes, making a total of 46.

In Edwards syndrome, a person has an extra copy of chromosome number 18. This means they have three copies instead of the usual two. This extra chromosome causes many of the health challenges seen in people with Edwards syndrome. The syndrome was named after John H. Edwards, who first described it in 1960.

How Common is Edwards Syndrome?

Edwards syndrome is not very common. It is estimated to affect about one in every 3,000 babies born alive. The chance of a baby having Edwards syndrome increases as the mother's age increases. It is the second most common extra-chromosome condition that babies are born with, after Down syndrome.

Health Challenges and Survival

Sadly, Edwards syndrome has a very low rate of survival. Many babies with this condition do not survive before birth. About half of all babies born with Edwards syndrome will live for about two months. Only a small number, about 5 to 10 percent, will live to be one year old. The average life span for babies born with this syndrome is usually just five to fifteen days.

Babies with Edwards syndrome often have several health problems. These can include heart problems, kidney issues, and other problems with their internal organs. In some rare cases, children with a less severe form called mosaic Edwards syndrome may live longer, sometimes even to age ten.

Images for kids

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  This picture shows a hand with fingers that overlap. The index finger goes over the third finger, and the fifth finger goes over the fourth finger. This is a common sign seen in babies with Trisomy 18. It happens because of a condition where joints are stiff from birth.

See also

In Spanish: Síndrome de Edwards para niños