Mark Leach is an attorney with a Master's in Bioethics, focusing on health law and public contracts. His interest in bioethics concerns the issues surrounding prenatal testing and Down syndrome.

A portrayal of Heaven on Earth: The Adoration of the Christ Child

The previous post discussed how one of the earliest representations of Down syndrome in Western Art had been identified. But what is significant about the painting? Continue Reading

Down syndrome diagnosis at the Adoration of the Christ Child

Ten years ago, two researchers noted that a painting from almost 500 years ago depicted some surprising visitors in a Nativity scene.  Continue Reading

The new era of Down syndrome prenatal testing

The newest prenatal testing recommendation now adds microarray testing to the options available for expectant moms. But how does this apply specifically to prenatal testing for Down syndrome? Continue Reading

New guidelines to blindside expectant moms with toxic knowledge

In a surprising twist on what is considered quality, evidence-based healthcare, new guidelines recommend that expectant moms be blindsided with toxic knowledge. Continue Reading

Another year, another change in prenatal testing recommendations by ACOG

Last year, the American Congress of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG) issued its position statement on non-invasive prenatal screening, recommending it be offered to high-risk expectant mothers. This year, ACOG, along with the Society for Maternal-Fetal  Medicine, recommends a new form of diagnostic testing for expectant mothers. Continue Reading

Women are deformed freaks and Down syndrome is defective: Onion satire cuts deep

In 2013, The Onion said that baby girls are "deformed freaks" and that Down syndrome is a defect. The latter, particularly, made some people mad.  Continue Reading

Keep calm & build confidence

Two videos that came across social media this week shared a related lesson about what can be learned from living through a difficult period: confidence. Continue Reading

How the little things a doctor does can make all the difference

While much of modern medicine emphasizes the science, what can make the biggest difference in quality care remains an art. Continue Reading

The simplest way to raise awareness about Down syndrome this holiday season

In 2007, I attended my first ever National Down Syndrome Congress conference. Campbell Brasington, a genetic counselor from Charlotte, North Carolina, shared the simplest way to raise awareness about Down syndrome and engage in medical outreach.  Continue Reading