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The physician and Down syndrome: are attitudes changing?
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Hospital for Sick Children, Ontario, Canada.
Journal of Child Neurology
|July 1, 1992
Summary
Physicians show significantly improved attitudes toward treating children with Down syndrome, favoring active intervention over institutionalization. Older physicians, however, remain less supportive, highlighting the need for continued medical education on developmental disabilities.
Area of Science:
- Medical ethics
- Pediatric medicine
- Developmental disabilities
Background:
- Physician attitudes towards Down syndrome have evolved.
- Previous studies in 1975 provide a baseline for comparison.
- Societal and medical understanding of Down syndrome has advanced.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare contemporary pediatrician, child neurologist, and pediatric surgeon attitudes toward Down syndrome with a 1975 study.
- To identify factors influencing current physician attitudes.
- To assess the impact of advocacy and research on medical perspectives.
Main Methods:
- Comparative survey analysis of physician attitudes.
- Review of historical data from a 1975 study.
- Analysis of physician demographics, particularly age, in relation to attitudes.
Main Results:
- Contemporary physicians are more aggressive in treating associated anomalies in Down syndrome.
- Most physicians now support community living (group homes) instead of institutionalization.
- Physician age is the most significant factor; older physicians exhibit less supportive attitudes.
Conclusions:
- Positive shifts in physician attitudes are attributed to advocacy groups, legal decisions, and improved understanding of Down syndrome.
- Ongoing education in developmental disabilities and bioethics is crucial for medical professionals.
- Promoting informed advocacy for individuals with Down syndrome requires continuous learning and updated perspectives.
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