About Down Syndrome

Down syndrome is a genetic condition that has an occurrence rate of one in every 800 to 1000 live births. It affects people of all ages, races, and economic levels. Down syndrome is one of the most frequently occurring chromosomal abnormalities. Down syndrome's most common form is Trisomy 21.

The risk of giving birth to a baby with Down syndrome increases with a mother's age and increases more rapidly after the age of 35. However, 80 to 85% of children with Down syndrome are born to women under 35 since this group gives birth to more children.

Down syndrome research has progressed tremendously in the past decade. When parents do their own research on Down syndrome, we encourage them to be skeptical of information that is more than 10 years old.

Abilities

• Wide variation in cognitive abilities, and physical development.
• Individuals benefit from loving homes, early intervention, quality education, employment, independent living skills, sensitive medical care, and positive public awareness.
• Can participate and become active and productive members of society. Adults with Down syndrome are capable of, and derive a sense of worth from, regular employment, normal social contacts, and community involvement.

Common Physical Characteristics

Individuals with Down syndrome may have one or more of the following physical characteristics.

• Low muscle tone
• Somewhat depressed nasal bridge and small nose
• An upward slant of the eyes
• Unusual shape or positioning of the ears
• Single crease across the center of the palm
• Small skin folds in the inner corner of the eyes
• More space between the large and second toes
• Tongue may be large in relationship to the size of the mouth

Common Health Concerns

Infants with Down syndrome may have minor health issues. Some may have more serious concerns. Approximately 40% of individuals with Down syndrome have heart defects and some have congenital anomalies of the gastrointestinal tract. Most of these are correctable with surgery. Today, most health conditions are treatable and closely monitored by pediatricians and specialists.

• Congenital heart defects
• Increased susceptibility to infection
• Respiratory concerns
• Obstructed digestive system
• Childhood leukemia
• Increased risk for celiac disease

Common Therapies

Infants with Down syndrome benefit from early intervention therapies that include:

• Physical therapy to improve gross motor skills
• Occupational therapy to improve fine motor skills
• Speech and language therapy, which may include sign language