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Down syndrome is a condition where a person has an extra chromosome. A baby is usually born with 46 chromosomes. However, babies with Down syndrome have an extra chromosome that is the copy of one of these chromosomes. The copy is of chromosome 21.
This syndrome is still the most common chromosomal condition in the United States. Around 6,000 babies are born with Down syndrome every year in the United States, which makes the rate of occurrence 1 in every 700 babies .
Although the reason for it is still unknown, it has been a part of the human condition and can be observed in people from all backgrounds across the world. It affects learning skills, health, and physical characteristics.
For individuals with Down syndrome to live a comfortable and fulfilled life, they need to have sufficient access to health care. Early intervention and inclusive education are essential for their healthy growth and development.
When is Down Syndrome Awareness Day?
The United Nations General Assembly declared 21 March as World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) in 2011. Since 2012, World Down Syndrome Day has been observed as a global awareness day on this date.
The reason that the 21st day of the 3rd month of the year is chosen to be World Down Syndrome Day is to reflect the uniqueness of the triplication of the 21st chromosome. This process causes Down syndrome.
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What Do We Do for Down Syndrome Awareness Day?
Every year Down Syndrome Awareness Day is observed in many ways across the world. This year WDSD will be celebrated with #WorldDownSyndromeDay #WDSD2021 #SeeTheAbility #ShareTheJourney hashtags to raise awareness.
Another way to raise awareness is to wear colorful socks! People at school or at workwear #LotsOfSocks that are all colorful and fun to help raise awareness and put some little fun in this cause.
The best way to observe Down Syndrome Awareness Day is to share your celebrations with those around you and on social networks.
In addition to celebrations, several events and conferences will be held this year, like the annual WDSD Conference at United Nations Headquarters in New York and an annual event that is led by individuals with Down syndrome at the UN in Geneva . Down Syndrome Ireland will be holding its annual Purple Run virtually to raise money and support for their work with children and adults with Down syndrome.
