Tommy is a 43-year-old man who has Down syndrome. Recent research indicates that he is likely to develop
A) Parkinson's disease.
B) Alzheimer's disease.
C) Pick's disease.
D) multiple sclerosis.
Since I didn't know the answer, I Googled "Down syndrome facts" to get this:
People with Down syndrome have an increased risk for certain medical conditions such as congenital heart defects, respiratory and hearing problems, Alzheimer's disease, childhood leukemia, and thyroid conditions. Many of these conditions are now treatable, so most people with Down syndrome lead healthy lives.
In the future, you can find the information you desire more quickly, if you use appropriate key words to do your own search. Also see http://hanlib.sou.edu/searchtools/.
To determine which of these diseases Tommy is likely to develop, we need to consider the known associations and risks associated with Down syndrome. Here's an overview of each option:
A) Parkinson's disease: Down syndrome is not directly linked to an increased risk of Parkinson's disease. While some individuals with Down syndrome may develop Parkinson's disease, the risk is not significantly higher compared to the general population.
B) Alzheimer's disease: People with Down syndrome have a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Research suggests that nearly all individuals with Down syndrome will develop the characteristic brain changes associated with Alzheimer's disease by their 40s or 50s. Therefore, it is highly likely that Tommy may develop Alzheimer's disease.
C) Pick's disease: Pick's disease is a relatively rare neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. There is no strong evidence to suggest a direct association between Down syndrome and Pick's disease.
D) Multiple sclerosis: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. There is no specific connection between Down syndrome and an increased risk of developing MS.
Considering these options, the most likely disease that Tommy is at risk for is B) Alzheimer's disease. However, it is important to consult with medical professionals for a conclusive diagnosis and to discuss individual health risks.