BSMMU's genetic autism test 

BSMMU has established a capability to check chromosomal or genetic problems in foetuses during pregnancy to detect autism or birth defects.

BSMMU unveiled the facility at an event at the university in Dhaka on Tuesday, planned by the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Radiology Imaging Feto Maternal Medicine, and Laboratory Medicine.

Prof Md Sharfuddin Ahmed, the vice-chancellor of BSMMU, opened the facility as a special guest and emphasised screening expectant moms to decrease foetal abnormality detection.

BSMMU's VC called the day unforgettable.

“Early screening of expectant mothers can lessen the country's burden,” he said, adding that the university has already initiated screening projects for newborn children.

BSMMU authorities revealed at the ceremony that 250,000 youngsters were identified with Down syndrome.

"From now on, BSMMU can test foetuses for Down syndrome and other chromosomal disorders from 11 to 14 weeks or when the infant is 1.5 to 2 inches."

According to a BSMMU press release, high risk can be validated 100% by another test.

Usually, chromosomal defect causes Down syndrome. Due to a lack of knowledge, more children have Down syndrome and most kids with the disease die after birth due to congenital cardiac defects, which increase neonatal mortality.

Those who survive become intellectually disabled, BSMMU experts said.

In prosperous countries like the US, doctors must inform expecting mothers about Down syndrome, but in our country, they say, it's overlooked.

According to the WHO, roughly fifteen (15) newborns are born with Down syndrome each year.

Specialists warn that the condition is linked to later pregnancy. One in 1,200 pregnant women over 25 and one in 900 over 30 may have a child with down syndrome.

After 35, the risk skyrockets. BSMMU specialists warn that 1 in 350 pregnant women over 35 and 1 in 100 over 40 may have a baby with down syndrome.