Down Syndrome Awareness Month: Understanding, Supporting, and Celebrating the Down Syndrome Community

In the 1980s, the National Down Syndrome Society – alongside dedicated organizations and advocates – successfully led efforts to have October proclaimed as Down Syndrome Awareness Month. Thanks to their advocacy, October now serves as a time to celebrate the remarkable abilities, talents, and contributions of individuals with Down syndrome while fostering understanding and inclusion within our communities.

What is Down Syndrome?

Down syndrome, first identified by Dr. Jérôme Lejeune in 1958, is a genetic condition caused by an extra full or partial copy of chromosome 21. Human cells typically contain 23 pairs of chromosomes; Down syndrome occurs when chromosome pair 21 experiences atypical cell division.

There are three genetic causes for Down syndrome:

• Trisomy 21, the most common form (about 95% of cases), occurs when a person has three copies of chromosome 21 instead of two.

• Mosaic Down syndrome results when only some cells contain an extra copy of chromosome 21.

• Translocation Down syndrome, the rarest type, happens when part of chromosome 21 attaches to another chromosome – either before or after conception.

Down syndrome is typically not hereditary but rather the result of a random cell division during the development of the egg, sperm, or early embryo. In very rare cases (around 1%), translocation Down syndrome can be inherited from a parent.

Each year, approximately 6,000 babies in the United States are born with Down syndrome – about 1 in every 700 births – and today, around 200,000 people across the country are living vibrant, fulfilling lives with this condition.

Understanding and Supporting Individuals with Down Syndrome

The extra genetic material on chromosome 21 influences development and can lead to some common physical characteristics, such as lower muscle tone, shorter stature, an upward slant to the eyes, and a single deep crease across the center of the palm. Some individuals may also experience cognitive differences or a higher likelihood of certain medical conditions – including congenital heart defects, respiratory challenges, hearing differences, thyroid concerns, Alzheimer’s disease, or childhood leukemia.

Despite these health risks, the life expectancy for individuals with Down syndrome has increased dramatically – from 25 years in 1983 to about 60 today. Access to inclusive education, medical care, therapy, and community support has played a key role in this progress. With the right resources and a supportive environment, individuals with Down syndrome can thrive, learn, work, and lead independent, fulfilling lives.

Down Syndrome Awareness Month: Advocacy, Awareness, and Celebration

Down Syndrome Awareness Month is about more than awareness – it’s about recognition, respect, and celebration. It’s an opportunity to honor the achievements of people with Down syndrome, advocate for equal opportunities, and build communities rooted in acceptance and belonging.

To learn more about Down Syndrome Awareness Month or to access valuable resources for advocacy and support, visit the National Down Syndrome Society website.

Subscribe to KidiConnect!