What is Considered the Main Risk Factor for Having a Child

Question

What is considered the main risk factor for having a child with Down syndrome?
A) maternal age
B) paternal age
C) exposure to radiation
D) exposure to cancer-causing chemicals
E) the combined age of the parents

Accepted Answer

The main risk factor for having a child with Down syndrome is maternal age. Specifically, the risk increases as the mother's age increases, with the highest risk occurring in women who are 35 years old or older. Paternal age, exposure to radiation, and exposure to cancer-causing chemicals are not known to be major risk factors for Down syndrome. The combined age of the parents may have some influence, but maternal age is the primary determinant.