For the most part, you can easily recognize someone with Down syndrome. But how much do you really know about this genetic condition? This October, educate yourself and help celebrate the abilities of those living with Down syndrome.
According to the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS), one in every 691 babies is born with Down syndrome. The condition occurs when there is an extra copy of chromosome 21, which effects the baby’s body and brain development.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) list the following common physical features of the condition:
- A flattened face, especially the bridge of the nose
- Almond-shaped eyes that slant up
- A short neck
- Small ears
- A tongue that tends to stick out of the mouth
- Tiny white spots on the iris (colored part) of the eye
- Small hands and feet
- A single line across the palm of the hand (palmar crease)
- Small pinky fingers that sometimes curve toward the thumb
- Poor muscle tone or loose joints
- Shorter in height as children and adults
The CDC adds that children with Down syndrome can also develop other health problems – including hearing loss, ear infections, and eye disease.
It’s unclear what causes the extra copy of chromosome 21 in some babies. Researchers however believe that women 35 years or older run a greater risk of their child being born with Down syndrome. The condition can be detected during or after pregnancy.
Children with Down syndrome are living longer lives. Data from the NDSS shows that as many as 80% of adults with the genetic disease can live to be 60 years old or even older in some cases.
National Down Syndrome Society, Down Syndrome Awareness Month
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, facts about Down syndrome
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Data and Statistics