21st March - Down Syndrome?

Hmm. Did you know 21st March was actually World Down Syndrome Day? Im not really sure what Down Syndrome is, but I did some research and thought that I'd help spread the msg.

What is Down syndrome?

Down syndrome is a chromosomal condition that is associated with intellectual disability, a characteristic facial appearance, and poor muscle tone (hypotonia) in infancy. The degree of intellectual disability varies, but it is usually mild to moderate.

People with Down syndrome may be born with a variety of birth defects. About half of all affected children have a heart defect. Digestive abnormalities, such as a blockage of the intestine, are less common.

Individuals with Down syndrome have an increased risk of developing several medical conditions. These include gastroesophageal reflux, which is a backflow of acidic stomach contents into the esophagus, and celiac disease, which is an intolerance of a wheat protein called gluten. About 15 percent of people with Down syndrome have an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism). The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ in the lower neck that produces hormones. Individuals with Down syndrome also have an increased risk of hearing and vision problems. Additionally, about 1 percent of children with Down syndrome develop cancer of blood-forming cells (leukemia).

Adults with Down syndrome have an increased risk of developing Alzheimer disease, a brain disorder that results in a gradual loss of memory, judgment, and ability to function. Although Alzheimer disease is usually a disorder that occurs in older adults, about half of adults with Down syndrome develop this condition by age 50.

Source: http://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/down-syndrome

Do you know anybody with down's syndrome? Share your experiences with us in the comment section below :)