Last week, UK's National Health Service announced the development of a new and highly accurate test for detecting Down Syndrome in pregnant women. It only involves a simple blood test that can not only pick up signs of Down Syndrome but also Patau's syndrome and Edward's syndrome. The blood test is a far cry from the very invasive amniocentesis which runs the risk of miscarriage for 1% of women who go through with the procedure. The Department of Health has since voiced out their support for the screening test.
"We welcome these important recommendations from the UK National Screening Committee, which have the potential to transform antenatal, bowel and cervical screening. We are now considering the recommendations" quipped a spokeswoman from the department.
The reception to the news has been polarizing to say the least. The Telegraph UK has recently published a scathing criticism of the procedure which accused the researchers of bringing about the extinction of people who are afflicted by the disease. According to Tim Stanley, the writer of the controversial article, claims that there are several myths that justify tests like the recently unveiled screening process.
On the other hand, Kavin Senapathy from Forbes has spoken out about the claims Stanley has made in his recent article. According to Senapathy, the criticism seems to be inherently biased against women.
She explains that in order to make an informed decision about her body, a woman should be provided with all the facts available. She also claims that not all couples interested in a screening go through with it in order to eliminate the fetus upon detection. Some want the best treatment for their child and early detection qualifies them for prenatal treatment trials.
"A woman needs facts to empower an informed decision, whatever that choice may be, when faced with a Down syndrome diagnosis" quipped Senapathy.