What Is Downs Syndrome?

Down Syndrome is also referred to as Trisomy 21. The number of chromosomes in humans is 46. In Down Syndrome, a copy of either the whole of chromosome number 21 or part of it is also present. Therefore, people with Down Syndrome have 47 chromosomes in total. A woman is more probable of having a baby with Down Syndrome if she conceives after 40 years of age.
People suffering from Down Syndrome have a characteristic slant of the eyes like mongols  (which is why it was also referred to as mongolism at times). The major problem is in the cognitive development of the child with Down Syndrome. Speech and gait may be delayed in such children. Sometimes, speech therapy may be used. People living with Down Syndrome may also have congenital heart disease, short stature, hearing problems and thyroid disorder. Some may develop Alzheimer's and immune deficiencies.
The life expectancy may also be lower. It was only about 25 years in 1980 but now, people with Down Syndrome may live up to 49-50 years or even more if their state of health allows.
Fertility of affected people is very low and even if a person conceives, there are chances that the offspring may also have the disease. It is true for half the incidences of Down Syndrome pregnancies.
However, now facilities are available that make the standard of living quite high for people with Down Syndrome. Programs are offered to develop or refine their cognitive development and to live a fruitful, productive life.

Downs Syndrome affects one in 1,000 babies born today. In the UK there are roughly 60,000 people living with Downs Syndrome and it affects all races, ages and cultures. It is a genetic condition which is passed form the parents to the baby and where most humans have 46 chromosomes, children with Downs Syndrome tend to have 47.

There are different severity levels of the condition and it is impossible to tell from birth how bad the condition will affect the baby. Physically, people with Down's syndrome look a little different to other children and their eyes tend to slant upwards and outwards. The back of the head is also usually quite flat. Many babies with Down's syndrome also have heart defects for example, a hole in the heart.

Mentally people with Down's syndrome can find it a little harder to learn than other people; however this is only usually a mild problem. They are able to do things that ordinary children are able to do such as walk, talk and learn to ride a bike. There is no reason why a person with Down's syndrome cannot lead a healthy, happy life just like anybody else.