DOWN SYNDROME

DOWN SYNDROME

Fast facts

The disorder is generally caused by an error in cell division in which three copies instead of two of the 21st chromosome are in some or all of a person’s cells.

Down syndrome affects people of all races, ages and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Roughly 1 in 733 births results in a diagnosis of Down syndrome, making it the most common chromosomal condition.

More than 400,000 people in the U.S. have it.

Two tests for pregnant women, screening and diagnostic, estimate the risk of the fetus, and tell whether the fetus has the condition, respectively.

The most common traits of Down syndrome are low muscle tone, an upward slant to the eyes, abnormally shaped ears, a single deep crease across the center of the palm, extra space between the first and second toes, curvature of the fifth finger and an excessive ability to extend the joints.

Most with the condition lead healthy lives but are at increased risk for congenital heart defects, sleep apnea, respiratory and hearing problems, obstructed digestive tracts and childhood leukemia.

Those with DS are highly responsive to their environments and have the same needs as anyone else.

Source: National Down Syndrome Society