Trisomy 18 Was Once Seen as Too Lethal to Treat. Some Kids Are Now Surviving.
Trisomy 18 Was Once Seen as Too Lethal to Treat. Some Kids Are Now Surviving.
Trisomy 18 is normally fatal within weeks of birth. But some parents are getting more time — with surgeries, luck and an incredible amount of effort.
Read the full article on NY Times Health
Truth Analysis
Analysis Summary:
The article is mostly accurate, reflecting the evolving understanding and treatment of Trisomy 18. It highlights the increased survival rates due to medical interventions, which aligns with current medical literature. The article exhibits a slight bias towards hope and the positive outcomes of treatment, but remains largely objective.
Detailed Analysis:
- Claim: Trisomy 18 is normally fatal within weeks of birth.
- Verification Source #1: Life expectancy for children diagnosed with Edwards syndrome is short due to several life-threatening complications of the condition.
- Verification Source #4: Some babies with trisomy 18 or 13 do survive the first year of life. Therefore, these disorders are not universally fatal.
- Assessment: Mostly supported. While historically considered rapidly fatal, source 4 indicates some survive the first year, suggesting the claim needs nuance.
- Claim: Some parents are getting more time — with surgeries, luck and an incredible amount of effort.
- Verification Source #2: Previously, trisomy 18 was considered lethal, and resuscitation at birth was not...
- Verification Source #4: Therefore, these disorders are not universally fatal. In the absence of any immediate...
- Assessment: Supported. Source 2 implies a change in approach, and source 4 confirms that survival beyond initial expectations is possible.
Supporting Evidence/Contradictions:
- Source 4: "some babies with trisomy 18 or 13 do survive the first year of life. Therefore, these disorders are not universally fatal."
- Source 2: "Previously, trisomy 18 was considered lethal, and resuscitation at birth was not..."