About World Down Syndrome Day

World Down Syndrome Day is about supporting people who have down syndrome and their families. It’s about raising awareness of the general public about Down syndrome. 

Around the world, people with Down syndrome and those who live and work with them celebrate World Down Syndrome Day by organizing and participating in activities. It is hoped that these activities will raise public awareness and advocate for Down syndrome individuals' rights, inclusion and well-being.

What is Down Syndrome?

Down syndrome, sometimes referred to as Trisomy 21, is a single-gene inherited condition that causes the presence of either a single or a double copy of chromosome 21 (trisomy). Down syndrome is normally associated with developmental delays and mild to severe intellectual impairment.

Occurs during embryonic development, Down syndrome is one of the most common genetic disorders in humans–affecting approximately 1 out of every 700 births. In order to diagnose Down syndrome, doctors will examine physical characteristics and family medical history. They may also run several different tests in order to be aware of comorbid conditions that can affect the child’s health.

Why Down Syndrome Awareness is Important

Down syndrome Awareness is extremely important because it helps the public to recognize that people with Down syndrome are as much a part of society as anyone else and as such deserve to be included in all areas of work, life and play. 

There has too long been unprecedented stigmas attached to the condition and now it’s more than time for awareness, acceptance, and inclusion for individuals with disabilities and their families. 

How Can You Help Raise Awareness About Down Syndrome?

By starting conversations with people about Down Syndrome, you can help them and they can help you to break down the stigma. You can join in activities or start your own. Learn as much as you can. You can also fundraise. 

There are times when you may be able to talk with someone about what having Down syndrome means to them. When asking people with Down syndrome about their condition, you need to be sure that the person is comfortable with you and comfortable discussing. Some people will be comfortable with you asking them questions about their condition and others won’t. You need to read the room and not jump in immediately with questions about a person’s condition–which would be a sure way to make anyone feel totally alienated. 

Organizations for Down Syndrome

There are a number of organizations that offer support for those with Down syndrome and their families. This could be in the form of food and housing resources, information about Down syndrome, groups for people who have Down syndrome, groups for parents of a child with Down syndrome, research, learning resources, and more. Here are a few of the big players:

National Down syndrome Society (NDSS)

One major resource is the National Down syndrome Society (NDSS). This organization supports the research, development, and medical care for people with Down syndrome. 

The NDSS also works to maintain an international network of support, education, and advocacy as well as offering information about the diagnosis and treatment for Down syndrome.

The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)

NORD works to improve the lives of people with rare diseases and the lives of their families too. It is dedicated to educating people about their condition and the many options available for each individual. 

The NORD organization undertakes research to improve the understanding and diagnosis of genetic disorders. They also provide support, resources, newsletters, and education for the medical community.

The Down Syndrome Education & Research Center (DSERC)

This organization offers educational programs and services for people interested in learning about Down syndrome and its various disorders. 

The DSERC conducts clinical trials, genetic studies and develops new diagnostic tests. DSERC also maintains a large database of information about all other known genetic disorders.

In Conclusion

If we work together, we can help to dispel myths that exist about Down syndrome and help the world to see people as the individuals they are. The more people know, the better they will be able to support individuals with Down syndrome so that a person with Down syndrome may have a fair chance at sharing their unique talents with the world. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities do not need sympathy–they need a level playing field.