Down’s Syndrome Awareness Week is celebrated across the globe from March 15 to March 21 every year. The purpose of the week is to create awareness about individuals with Down’s syndrome, and the difficulties they face in their lives. The week also helps everyone understand how people with the syndrome can lead normal lives. This is essential to increasing their lifespan and making the world a place where everyone can live equally. Throughout the week, different awareness activities are held to spread the message and identify with those with Down’s syndrome. Play your part in making this world a better place by spreading the message.
History of Down's Syndrome Awareness Week
Down’s syndrome is a condition that is recognized in babies after birth, based on specific physical characteristics. These include distinguishing features such as low muscle tone, a single crease across the palm, a slightly flattened facial profile, and an upward slant to the eyes. But the diagnosis isn’t confirmed till a chromosome study is conducted by looking at the blood or tissue cells.
Since Down’s Syndrome has affected so many people in the past decades, it is crucial to spread awareness about the condition. The Down’s Syndrome Awareness Week was created by Down’s Syndrome International, a charity organization with support from the United Nations. The date chosen is special: the number 21 represents the 21st chromosome, which causes Down’s Syndrome. The campaign has also heightened, since social media took over the world, and the message continues to spread across various nations.
Owing to the efforts of several organizations, people are now aware of the causes of Down’s syndrome. For instance, late marriage was observed as one of the leading causes of the condition. But in truth, 80% of children with Down’s syndrome are born to women under 35 years of age. Moreover, doctors have also found that 40% of children with Down’s syndrome have congenital heart defects, thus decreasing their life span. Children with Down’s syndrome are also more susceptible to infection, respiratory, vision, and hearing problems, as well as thyroid and other medical conditions.
Down's Syndrome Awareness Week timeline
British physician John Langdon introduces Down syndrome to the world.
The Geneticist Professor Jerome Lejeune discovers that individuals with Down's syndrome have an extra chromosome.
Down syndrome becomes an accepted term.
One out of every 1,000 children and teenagers in the U.S. are diagnosed with Down's syndrome.
Down's Syndrome Awareness Week FAQs
What is the life expectancy of someone with Down syndrome?
An individual with Down’s syndrome may live up to 60 years.
Can stress cause Down syndrome?
Down syndrome is caused by a chromosome defect, which is directly linked to stress.
What are the three types of Down syndrome?
The three types of Down syndrome are Trisomy 21, Translocation Down syndrome, and Mosaic Down syndrome.
How to Observe Down's Syndrome Awareness Week
Donate to an organization
To celebrate the week, donate to an organization catering to individuals with Down’s syndrome. These organizations, constantly making efforts to improve the lives of people with this syndrome, deserve our support.
Spend a day with children with Down’s syndrome
Visit a center and spend a day with children with Down’s syndrome. This will help you understand their problems better.
Interview someone with Down’s syndrome
To educate the masses and spread information about Down's syndrome, interview someone, record the interview, and post it on social media. Be sure to let your interviewee know how you plan to use the material.
5 Facts About Down’s Syndrome That Will Blow Your Mind
The world's oldest surviving Down syndrome patient
His name is Bryce Walker, and he is 76 years old.
Babies with Down’s syndrome every year
6,000 babies are born with Down’s syndrome in the U.S. yearly.
High mortality in 1983
Because of a lack of technology and proper medication, the life expectancy of people with Down's syndrome in 1983 was 25 years.
People with color have low survival rates
African Americans have a low chance of surviving their second year.
The gender with more Down's syndrome cases
According to a study, Down's syndrome is more common in boys.
Why Down's Syndrome Awareness Week is Important
It creates awareness
The week creates awareness about Down’s syndrome. It also educates the public on how the condition can be prevented, and how individuals with Down’s syndrome can live healthy lives.
Increases donations
The week also encourages donations to charity organizations that cater to the needs of patients leaving with this condition. These donations go a long way to furthering the cause of Down's Syndrome Awareness Week.
Increases research studies
As the week speaks of Down’s Syndrome, numerous organizations and research centers are encouraged to increase research in the area. More research equals more discoveries — and possible solutions.
Down's Syndrome Awareness Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | March 15 | Saturday |
| 2026 | March 15 | Sunday |
| 2027 | March 15 | Monday |
| 2028 | March 15 | Wednesday |
| 2029 | March 15 | Thursday |
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