WHAT IS DOWN’S SYNDROME?
In every cell in the human body there is a nucleus, where genetic material is stored in genes. Genes carry the codes responsible for all of our inherited traits and are grouped along rod-like structures called chromosomes. Typically, the nucleus of each cell contains 23 pairs of chromosomes, half of which are inherited from each parent. Down syndrome occurs when an individual has a full or partial extra copy of chromosome 21.
This additional genetic material alters the course of development and causes the characteristics associated with Down syndrome. A few of the common physical traits of Down syndrome are
– low muscle tone,
– small stature,
– an upward slant to the eyes, and
– a single deep crease across the center of the palm.
Each person with Down syndrome is a unique individual and may possess these characteristics to different degrees, or not at all.
Source: National Down’s syndrome Society (hyperlink – http://www.ndss.org/Down-Syndrome/What-Is-Down-Syndrome/#sthash.n1hGYTSz.dpuf )
• There are three types of Down syndrome: trisomy 21 (nondisjunction) accounts for 95% of cases, translocation accounts for about 4% and mosaicism accounts for about 1%.
• Down syndrome is the most commonly occurring chromosomal condition. One in every 691 babies in the United States is born with Down syndrome, we are not sure of the exact figure in Nigeria.
• Down syndrome occurs in people of all races and economic levels.
• The incidence of births of children with Down syndrome increases with the age of the mother. But due to higher fertility rates in younger women, 80% of children with Down syndrome are born to women under 35 years of age.
• People with Down syndrome have an increased risk for certain medical conditions such as congenital heart defects, respiratory and hearing problems, Alzheimer’s disease, childhood leukemia, and thyroid conditions. Many of these conditions are now treatable, so most people with Down syndrome lead healthy lives.
• Life expectancy for people with Down syndrome has increased dramatically in recent decades – from 25 in 1983 to 60 today.
• People with Down syndrome attend school, work; participate in decisions that affect them, and contribute to society in many wonderful ways.
• All people with Down syndrome experience cognitive delays, but the effect is usually mild to moderate and is not indicative of the many strengths and talents that each individual possesses.
• Quality educational programs, a stimulating home environment, good health care, and positive support from family, friends and the community enable people with Down syndrome to develop their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.
See more at: http://www.ndss.org/Down-Syndrome/Down-Syndrome-Facts/#sthash.qw0Kj8Bi.dpuf
Efforts such as early childhood intervention, screening for common problems, medical treatment where indicated, a good family environment, and work related training can improve the development of children with Down syndrome. Education and proper care can improve quality of life.
COMPILED WITH ADDITIONAL RESOURCES FROM
National Down’s Syndrome Society – www.ndss.org
Down Syndrome Foundation Nigeria – www.http://downsyndrome-ng.org/
Down Syndrome on Wikipedia – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Down_syndrome
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON DOWN’S SYNDROME IN NIGERIA, PLEASE CONTACT
Down Syndrome Foundation Nigeria
Head Office: 43 Adegoke street, off Alhaji Masha Road Surulere, Lagos State, Nigeria.
Phone: +234(0) 8032285545, +234(0) 7098820310, 01-8119718, +234(0) 8027797418.
Email: info@downsyndrome-ng.org