What do syndrome patients have a higher risk for?

People with Down syndrome have a higher risk of developing certain medical conditions, including:

* Heart defects, such as atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) and tetralogy of Fallot (TOF)

* Gastrointestinal problems, such as Hirschsprung disease and celiac disease

* Thyroid problems, such as hypothyroidism

* Vision problems, such as cataracts and nystagmus

* Hearing problems, such as conductive hearing loss

* Dental problems, such as malocclusion (misaligned teeth) and delayed tooth eruption

* Sleep apnea

* Obesity

* Infertility

* Early-onset Alzheimer's disease