DOWN'S SYNDROME

 

Down Syndrome is the most common chromosomal disorder that we know of, affecting about one in every 1150 babies born each year, worldwide. Down syndrome is caused when there is an extra chromosome. Our bodies are made up of millions of cells. In each cell there are 46 chromosomes. Each chromosome contains thousands of genes which precisely control our development. People with Down syndrome have 47 chromosomes in their cells, instead of 46. They have an extra chromosome 21, which is why Down syndrome is also sometimes known as trisomy 21.

Although the chance of having a baby with Down syndrome increases with maternal age, children with Down syndrome are born to mothers of all ages. Most babies with Down syndrome are born to mothers under the age of 35 years of age, because the greatest number of babies are born to this group each year.

A test for Down syndrome can be carried out before a baby is born. However, Down syndrome is usually first recognised at birth and is confirmed by a blood test. It was named after Dr John Langdon Down who first described it.

Although we know how Down syndrome occurs, we do not yet know why it happens. Down syndrome occurs at conception, across all ethnic and social groups and to parents of all ages. It’s nobody’s fault. There is no cure and it does not go away.

People with Down syndrome have some characteristic physical features, some health and development challenges, and some level of intellectual disability. Because no two people are alike, each of these things will vary from one person to another. When a baby is born, there is no way to tell what level of intellectual disability the child may have. Nor can we predict the way in which the disability may affect their life. However, people with Down syndrome need additional opportunities to reach their full potential. When given these opportunities, they become valued and productive members of their families and the community. With progress in medical and social sciences they can enjoy a long and healthy life