Genetic diseases occur in 3 to 4 percent of all babies born according to information provided by Net Wellness. Genetic diseases are caused by damage to or destruction of one or more genes, which are specific segments of DNA (the fundamental building-block of the genetic code) that are responsible for specific functions or chromosomes that are strands of DNA carried in the nucleus of cells. Net Wellness also reports that up to 20 percent of all infant deaths are due to genetic defects and diseases. However, there are genetic diseases that are non-deadly.
Down Syndrome
Down syndrome is a genetic disease that occurs when the child is born with 47 chromosomes instead of the normal 46. This anomaly occurs due to an error that happens during cell division at the time of conception. The National Association for Down Syndrome estimates that 1 of every 800 live births will have Down syndrome.
Children and adults with Down syndrome may have developmental and learning disabilities, but they are actually more like every other person than they are different. Those with Down syndrome may have other health issues including heart defects, respiratory problems and vision or hearing impairments.
Spina Bifida
Spina bifida is a defect that occurs when the spine of the fetus fails to close properly during the first month of pregnancy. In the most severe form, the baby may be born with an open lesion and with the spinal cord and nerves exposed. In the mildest form of the disease there is no lesion, but several of the vertebrae may be missing or improperly formed. Although an open lesion can be fixed by surgery, the damage to any nerves cannot be repaired. As a result, patients with spina bifida may have some degree of paralysis, especially of the lower limbs, as well as learning disabilities.
Charcot-Marie-Tooth Syndrome
Charcot-Marie-Tooth Syndrome, the most commonly inherited neurological disorder, affects more than 2.6 million people according to statistics reported by the Charcot-Marie-Tooth Association. This disease causes the nerves--especially in the extremities (arms and legs)--to deteriorate, which results in weakening of the muscles. Although this disease is one supported by the Muscular Dystrophy Association, it is actually a disease of the nerves, not the muscles. This disease is passed from parent to child; and because there are several different genes that, if defective, can cause the disorder, there are different types of the disease.
