Instructions: Review rules for option C. You may choose to work independently or with one other person. Only one partner needs to turn in the assignment (with both names). You and your partner must present on ONE of the disorders that you research. Choose three genetic disorders to research (Tay- Sachs, Down’s syndrome, Sickle Cell Anemia, etc.). Create three separate informational documents (flyers, word documents, graphics, etc.) that detail the following:​

Name of disorder​

Causes​

Mortality (death) rate​

Pictures​

Symptoms and treatment​

Treatment centers (with contact information)​

1 answer

Certainly! Below are three examples of informational documents for three different genetic disorders: Tay-Sachs, Down Syndrome, and Sickle Cell Anemia. Each of these documents includes the required information.


Document 1: Tay-Sachs Disease

Name of Disorder: Tay-Sachs Disease

Causes:

  • Tay-Sachs is caused by a mutation in the HEXA gene located on chromosome 15.
  • It is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning both parents must carry the mutated gene for a child to be affected.

Mortality Rate:

  • Children with Tay-Sachs typically do not survive past early childhood; approximately 50% die by age 4-5, and nearly all are deceased by age 5-6.

Pictures:

  • (Include appropriate images, such as the HEXA gene location and relevant diagrams depicting Tay-Sachs effects on the nervous system)

Symptoms:

  • Symptoms may include:
    • Developmental delays
    • Loss of motor skills
    • Increased startle response
    • Seizures
    • Vision and hearing loss
    • "Cherry-red spot" on the retina

Treatment:

  • There is currently no cure. Treatment is supportive and focuses on managing symptoms (e.g., therapies such as physical therapy and seizure management).

Treatment Centers:

  • Tay-Sachs Disease Testing and Support Center
    • Contact: 555-012-3456
    • Website: www.tay-sachssupport.org

Document 2: Down Syndrome

Name of Disorder: Down Syndrome

Causes:

  • Down syndrome is caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21 (trisomy 21).
  • It is usually a random event during cell division; the exact cause of this error is not fully understood.

Mortality Rate:

  • With modern medical advancements, life expectancy has improved significantly for individuals with Down syndrome. Many live into their 50s or beyond.

Pictures:

  • (Add images such as chromosome 21 structure and representative images of individuals with Down syndrome)

Symptoms:

  • Symptoms may include:
    • Distinct facial features (flat facial profile, slanted eyes)
    • Hypotonia (decreased muscle tone)
    • Short stature
    • Developmental delays
    • Increased risk of heart defects and other health issues

Treatment:

  • Early intervention programs (speech, occupational, and physical therapy)
  • Regular health screenings and treatment for associated medical conditions.

Treatment Centers:

  • National Down Syndrome Society
    • Contact: 800-221-4602
    • Website: www.ndss.org

Document 3: Sickle Cell Anemia

Name of Disorder: Sickle Cell Anemia

Causes:

  • Sickle Cell Anemia is caused by a mutation in the HBB gene on chromosome 11 that affects hemoglobin structure.
  • It is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern.

Mortality Rate:

  • The average life expectancy for those with Sickle Cell Anemia has improved to around 50-60 years due to better medical care, but severe complications can lead to early mortality.

Pictures:

  • (Include images illustrating sickled red blood cells and the effects of the disease)

Symptoms:

  • Symptoms may include:
    • Episodes of pain (sickle cell crises)
    • Anemia
    • Swelling in hands and feet
    • Frequent infections
    • Delayed growth in children

Treatment:

  • Treatments include hydroxyurea, blood transfusions, and pain management.
  • Bone marrow or stem cell transplantation may be a potential cure for some patients.

Treatment Centers:

  • Sickle Cell Disease Association of America
    • Contact: 800-421-8453
    • Website: www.sicklecelldisease.org

Formatting Tips:

  • Use appealing visuals and easy-to-read layouts for each document.
  • Ensure that your sources are credible and properly cited if needed.
  • Include a section for further reading or resources where individuals can learn more about each disorder.

Feel free to expand on these formats and modify as needed for your assignment!