October is Down Syndrome Month

What is Down syndrome?

Down syndrome is a genetic diagnosis that causes delays in physical and intellectual development. Individuals with Down syndrome have 47 chromosomes instead of the usual 46. Down syndrome is not related to race, nationality, religion or socioeconomic status. The spectrum of impact on individuals’ intellectual abilities is broad.

How common is Down syndrome?

• Down syndrome is the most commonly occurring chromosomal condition. One in every 733 babies is born with Down syndrome.

• There are more than 400,000 people with Down syndrome living in the United States.

• Down syndrome occurs in people of all races and economic levels.

Found on the Health Informer Website