- Down syndrome is a chromosomal condition which affects approximately one-quarter million families in the United States. It is not related to race, nationality, religion, or socio-economic status.
- The likelihood of giving birth to a child with Down syndrome increases with maternal age. Nevertheless, 80% of children born with Down syndrome are born to women under 35 years of age, as women in that age group give birth to more babies overall.
- The incidence of Down Syndrome in the United States is approximately one in every 800 births. 500 people in and around the Capital Region have Down syndrome. Nothing that either parent did during pregnancy caused their child to have Down syndrome.
- There is a wide variation in cognitive abilities, behavior, and physical development in individuals with Down syndrome. Each person has his/her own unique personality, capabilities and talents.
- Individuals with Down syndrome want to be and should be fully included in their communities, but often are not.
- Children with Down syndrome benefit from loving homes, early intervention, education that meets their individual needs, appropriate medical care, and positive public attitudes.
- Our positive attitudes and high expectation, as well as the vision we hold for our children influences how other view our loved ones and all people with Down syndrome.
Tuesday, 20 December 2011 18:48
Facts about Down Syndrome
Read a list of facts about Down syndrome.
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