DOWN SYNDROME

Cause of Down Syndrome:
The cause of Down syndrome is an extra copy of chromosome 21.

How is Down Syndrome inherited?
Almost all cases of Down Syndrome aren't inherited but are caused by a problem in cell division while the egg is forming.

How is Down Syndrome caused?
It is caused by changes in the overall structure or number of chromosomes.

SYMPTOMS

• Short in height
• Weak muscles
• Short, wide neck
• Heart defects
• Decreased thinking speed

How many people have the disease?
About 1 in every 691 Americans are born with Down Syndrome. There are just under 6 million people with this disease around the world.

What makes Down Syndrome interesting?

• Down Syndrome is also called Trisomy 21.
• It causes delays in the ways the child develops, both mentally and physically.
• Children with Down Syndrome reach developmental milestones later than other children.
• Most children have problems with hearing and vision.
• The chance of having a child with Down Syndrome increases when a woman gets older.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Down syndrome is the most commonly occurring chromosomal condition.
• Down syndrome occurs in people of all races and cultures.
• The life expectancy is 60 years.
• People with Down syndrome can still live healthy lives.
• Approximately 85% of infants with Down syndrome live to 1 year of age.