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Down syndrome occurs when an individual has three, rather than two, copies of the 21st chromosome. This additional genetic material alters the course of development and causes the characteristics associated with Down syndrome.
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Down syndrome is the most commonly occurring chromosomal condition. One in every 733 babies is born with Down syndrome.
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There are more than 400,000 people living with Down syndrome in the United States.
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Down syndrome occurs in people of all races and economic levels.
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A few of the common physical traits of Down syndrome are low muscle tone, small stature, an upward slant to the eyes, and a single deep crease across the center of the palm. Every person with Down syndrome is a unique individual and may possess these characteristics to different degrees or not at all.
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People with Down syndrome attend school, work, participate in decisions that affect them, and contribute to society in many wonderful ways.
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All people with Down syndrome experience cognitive delays, but the effect is usually mild to moderate and is not indicative of the many strengths and talents that each individual possesses.
More information is available at www.ndss.org
