World Down Syndrome Day 2024

• Every year on March 21, World Down Syndrome Day is observed across the globe.
• The Theme of World Down Syndrome Day 2024 is ‘End The Stereotypes’.
• The day is designated to promote awareness about Down syndrome and to assist those who live with the condition.
• The United Nations (UN) chose March 21 to represent the uniqueness of Down syndrome caused by triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome.
• According to the United Nations, the global prevalence of Down Syndrome is estimated to be between 1 in 1,000 and 1 in 1,100 live births.
• This chromosomal defect affects between 3,000 and 5,000 infants born each year around the world. It is unknown why this sickness develops, but it has long been a part of the human experience.

HISTORY:

• World Down Syndrome Day was first marked in 2006, following its establishment by Down Syndrome International (DSI) during its 2005 World Congress.
• Later, the Brazilian Federation of Down Syndrome Associations collaborated with DSI and its members to launch a large-scale effort to attract international support.

ABOUT DOWN SYNDROME:

• According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), A person with Down Syndrome possesses an extra chromosome.
• Chromosomes are lengthy DNA strands that hold all of the body’s genes. A baby is born with an average of 46 chromosomes (23 pairs).
• “Babies with Down syndrome have an extra copy of one of these chromosomes, chromosome 21,”.
• As a result, the extra chromosome alters the way the newborn grows (both body and brain), causing physical and cognitive issues for the child.