Down syndrome is a chromosomal disorder caused by an extra full or partial chromosome. No one knows for sure why this happens. But it is known that mothers in their 40s are at a higher risk to have children with Down syndrome than younger mothers. There are a few physical characteristics that set people with Down syndrome apart, such as almond-shaped eyes, small features, and curved pinky fingers. People with Down syndrome are also at higher risk for some medical problems. All people with Down syndrome have some mental retardation and developmental delays. However, experts say that it is important to remember that Down is a syndrome, not a personality — people with Down syndrome vary widely in their likes and dislikes, abilities and temperament. Often children with Down syndrome go to ordinary schools and go on to have jobs and full social lives. Though having a baby with Down syndrome can be a big readjustment in terms of what to expect out of your child, parents who have children with Down syndrome say, that while their children have some special needs, they are kids first and foremost, and on the whole they are more alike other children than they are different.
Children, Youth And Women’s Health
“Down Syndrome”
"Down syndrome is named after Dr John Langdon Down who first identified the syndrome in 1866. Down syndrome is caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21 inside each of the body’s cells. The extra chromosome causes certain physical characteristics (appearance) and affects intellectual development (thinking skills)."
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Brain Foundation
"Down Syndrome"
"Babies with Down Syndrome have distinctive physical features, including a slightly flattened face, eyes slanting upwards, and slightly smaller ears, hands and feet. They usually have some degree of intellectual impairment, and may be developmentally delayed. They frequently have other health problems, such as hearing or vision disorders; hypothyroidism; or skeletal, intestinal or heart defects." …read the full article
Better Health
"Down Syndrome Explained"
"Down syndrome affects, but does not determine, development and achievement in a person. People with Down syndrome demonstrate a wide range of capabilities. What happens after birth will be far more important in shaping the outlook for a person with Down syndrome than the occurrence of the extra chromosome at conception." …read the full article
National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities
"Down Syndrome"
"Down syndrome is the most common and readily identifiable chromosomal condition associated with mental retardation. It is caused by a chromosomal abnormality: for some unexplained reason, an accident in cell development results in 47 instead of the usual 46 chromosomes. This extra chromosome changes the orderly development of the body and brain. In most cases, the diagnosis of Down syndrome is made according to results from a chromosome test administered shortly after birth." …read the full article
BabyCenter Australia ®
"Down Syndrome"
"As yet we do not know what causes the presence of an extra chromosome… What we do know is that no one is to blame. Nothing done before or during pregnancy can cause Down syndrome. It occurs in all races, social classes and in all countries throughout the world. It can happen to anyone. " …read the full article
