Down syndrome is the most common genetic chromosomal disability around the world. Approximately 6,000 babies are born with Down syndrome every year in the U.S., but much about the disorder is still unknown or misunderstood.
There are three different types of Down syndrome, the most common being Trisomy 21 (95%) which is defined as having an additional third separate copy of chromosome 21. Less common types are called Translocation and Mosaic Down syndromes. The cause is still unknown.
The average lifespan of someone living with Down syndrome was 25 years prior to 1983, but is now 60 years old in developed countries. What are some common misconceptions about individuals living with Down syndrome and their daily lives?
How should families prepare for a child with this diagnosis? What resources and support services are available for people living with Down syndrome, and for their parents, families or caregivers?
Guests:
- Nicole Galindo, development manager for the Down Syndrome Association of South Texas
- Dr. Brian Skotko, board-certified medical geneticist, Emma Campbell Endowed Chair on Down Syndrome and director of the Down Syndrome Program at Massachusetts General Hospital; associate professor at Harvard Medical School
- Ashley Helsing, director of government affairs for the National Down Syndrome Society
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*This interview was recorded on Tuesday, January 7.
