Advances in medical technology have made early screening more effective, helping expectant parents understand fetal chromosomal health sooner and prepare with greater peace of mind.
To protect maternal and infant health, the Taichung City Health Bureau continues its 2026 maternal blood Down syndrome screening subsidy program. Pregnant women who are registered in Taichung and under 34 can receive up to NT$2,200 to help cover screening costs.
Every birth is a precious gift. Health Bureau Director Zeng Zizhan said the city is working with medical institutions to encourage regular prenatal checkups and early understanding of fetal health. The subsidy helps improve prenatal care quality and create a more supportive pregnancy environment.
What is Down syndrome? Understanding Trisomy 21
Down syndrome, or Trisomy 21, is caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21. It is a common chromosomal abnormality in newborns. People with Down syndrome may have mild intellectual disability, distinctive facial features, heart defects, or low muscle tone. The global incidence is about 1 in 700 births, and about 1 in 800 in Taiwan. Risk rises with maternal age.
Who can apply for Taichung's NT$2,200 screening subsidy?
What are the eligibility requirements?
Eligibility
Pregnant women registered in Taichung City and under 34 years old
Subsidy amount
Up to NT$2,200 for maternal blood Down syndrome screening to reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Screening process
Non-invasive maternal blood DNA testing is used, with over 99% accuracy. Testing can begin from the 10th week of pregnancy without amniocentesis risks.
Application process
The process is simple. Just inform staff during prenatal visits at contracted medical institutions to apply on site.
Taichung maternal blood screening promotion for Down syndrome (Photo/Mombaby)
Why is prenatal screening important?
Maternal blood testing can analyze fetal cell-free DNA and help detect Down syndrome and other chromosomal abnormalities early. If risks are found, doctors can provide counseling to help families prepare without panic. This improves both fetal monitoring and overall prenatal care quality.
A reminder for expectant mothers to pay attention to prenatal checkup items at each stage of pregnancy (Photo/Mombaby)
Daily pregnancy care tips
The Health Bureau also reminds expectant mothers that healthy pregnancies start with daily habits. These five tips can help lower risks.
Regular checkups: every four weeks to monitor fetal growth.
Balanced diet: increase folic acid, iron, and calcium intake, and avoid processed foods.
Weight control: keep pregnancy weight gain at 12–15 kg to reduce gestational diabetes risk.
Avoid smoking, alcohol, and coffee: lower the risk of preterm birth.
Watch for warning signs: seek care immediately for bleeding, severe pain, or abnormal fetal movement.
Expectant mothers, don't wait. Visit the Health Bureau website (https://health.taichung.gov.tw) for details and to apply.
This article is republished with authorization from Mombaby
