World Down Syndrome Day 2022: Between 3,000 and 5,000 children are born with this chromosome disorder every year around the world
World Down Syndrome Day is observed every year on March 21 as a global endeavor to raise awareness about the inherited illness. Down syndrome is characterized by the presence of one extra chromosome. The global incidence of Down Syndrome is estimated to be between 1 in 1,000 and 1 in 1,100 live births, according to the United Nations. Every year, between 3,000 and 5,000 babies are born with this chromosomal anomaly across the world. Although the cause of this sickness is unknown, it has always existed as part of the human experience.
A newborn is born with 46 chromosomes on average, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC explains that “babies with Down syndrome have an extra copy of one of these chromosomes, chromosome 21,” and that “trisomy” is the medical word for having an additional copy of a chromosome. As a result, Down Syndrome is also known as Trisomy 21. The baby’s body and brain grow differently as a result of the additional copy, causing mental and physical obstacles for the youngster.
History
In 2006, the inaugural World Down Syndrome Day was commemorated. The Brazilian Federation of Down Syndrome Associations then collaborated with Down Syndrome International and its members to launch a massive international awareness campaign. The United Nations General Assembly unanimously approved a resolution in November 2011 to commemorate World Down Syndrome Day every year. The next month, March 21, was designated as World Down Syndrome Day.
With effect from 2012, the United Nations General Assembly determined that World Down Syndrome Day will be marked on this day every year. Since then, every year on March 21, all member nations, international organizations, and civil society have held numerous activities to raise awareness about this issue.
Theme
This year’s theme for World Down Syndrome Day is “Inclusion Means.” It urges persons with Down syndrome to be included in all aspects of life and to not discriminate against them.
Symptoms
Down syndrome babies have an extra copy of a chromosome, which affects how their bodies and brains grow. People with this condition typically have a somewhat low IQ (intelligence quotient) and talk more slowly than other youngsters.
A child born with this genetic condition usually shows some of these common physical features:
— Face flattening, especially the bridge of the nose
— Upward-slanting almond-shaped eyes
— A slender neck
— Ears that are little
— A tongue that protrudes from the mouth
— Tiny white dots on the eye’s iris (colored region)
— Hands and feet are little.
— A single line across the hand’s palm (palmar crease)
— Small pinky fingers that curl toward the thumb on occasion
— Muscle atrophy or sagging jointsAs children and adults, they are shorter in stature.
Disclaimer: This content, including advice, is intended to give only general information. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. For further information, always visit a professional or your personal doctor. This information is not the responsibility of EDITOR99.
