HESI Maternal Newborn Related

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What causes Down's syndrome?

  • A. Alcohol abuse by the mother at the time of conception.
  • B. Sex-linked chromosomal abnormalities.
  • C. An extra chromosome on the 21st pair.
  • D. Drug abuse by the mother during pregnancy.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Down's syndrome, also known as trisomy 21, is caused by the presence of an extra chromosome on the 21st pair. Choice A is incorrect as alcohol abuse is not the cause of Down's syndrome. Choice B is incorrect because Down's syndrome is not related to sex-linked chromosomal abnormalities. Choice D is also incorrect as drug abuse by the mother during pregnancy is not the cause of Down's syndrome.