Down Syndrome: Debunking the Myths

Recognizing the facts on World Down Syndrome Day

March 21 is World Down Syndrome Day!

Photo by WDSD

March 21 is World Down Syndrome Day!

What is Down Syndrome?

Every human being possesses billions of cells, in which each one of those cells has a nucleus that stores a genetic code. The code that is carried by genes, responsible for one’s inherited traits, indicates the means of one’s development. While most people are born with 46 chromosomes in each cell, 23 from each parent, those with the genetic condition Down Syndrome are born with an extra chromosome, leaving them with cells that possess 47 chromosomes. This extra chromosome contributes to degrees of slower cognitive function and physical characteristics that are different from those who are born with the typical 46 chromosomes in each cell. For example, one with Down Syndrome may have a smaller stature than one without the condition. Interestingly, there are more than one type of Down Syndrome. The more common type, called Trisomy 21, occurs when the failure of chromosomal cell division causes the replication of an extra chromosome in every cell of the body. Over 95% of those with Down Syndrome have this type of the condition. On the other hand, Mosaic Down Syndrome occurs when there is a mixture of both cells with the usual 46 chromosomes, and cells with the extra chromosome 21. Only about 1% of those with Down Syndrome possess mosaicism.

The History of Down Syndrome Awareness

Down Syndrome gained recognition in 1866 after an English physician named John Langdon Down provided that the condition contributed to more than just physical differences. Decades later, those with the syndrome were identified as having genetic distinction from those without it. The identification of this chromosomal difference was recognized by a French physician named Jérôme Lejeune in 1959. Fortunately, modern scientists have come as far as identifying the 329 genes on chromosome 21, allowing for more research to be done on the condition. This advancement has also allowed for the creation of specific treatments that can help those with Down Syndrome lead normal, healthy lives.

The Real Truth About Down Syndrome

Photo by PubMed Central
Graphic details more information that debunks common misconceptions about those with DS.

While one with Down Syndrome may look different from others without it, it does not indicate that one is incapable of living one’s life to his or her fullest potential just because of this particular genetic coding.

“From the moment she was born, the doctors were telling me everything she wouldn’t be capable of doing in life. But my Sadie proved those doctors wrong.” -Dr. Hynes, Superintendent of Patchogue Medford School District, reflecting on his daughter Sadie who was born with Down Syndrome.

Pullquote Photo

“From the moment she was born, the doctors were telling me everything she wouldn’t be capable of doing in life. But my Sadie proved those doctors wrong.”

— Dr. Hynes, Patchogue-Medford Superintendent

While many have heard of Down Syndrome, a genetic condition in which one is born with a partial or full extra copy of chromosome 21, most are unaware of how capable one with the syndrome is when it comes to living one’s life to his or her fullest potential. As technologies have increasingly developed, the average survival rate of those with Down Syndrome has increased significantly; from living to 9 years old on average in the early 1900s, to living around 50 plus years in modern times.

As a result of this, people with Down Syndrome have grown increasingly integrated into society, participating in activities that others without the condition are involved in every day, such as: working a job, participating in sports teams, and attending school.

In fact, it is typical that one with the condition actually participate in educational courses that others without the condition engage in. This is because the majority of those with Down Syndrome possess only mild to moderate cognitive disability, which, by the way, is unrelated to special skills or talents one with the condition may possess. Moreover, incompetence of those with Down Syndrome is surely just a myth.

Living with Down Syndrome

Although Down Syndrome is classified by many as a disabling disorder, those with the condition are emotionally just like people who were not born with it. Approximately 1 in every 700 babies in the United States is born with the syndrome. However, this “one” is just as capable as the other 699 babies of feeling to the fullest extent the emotions that come with being human. In addition, those with Down Syndrome grow the same way emotionally as those without the condition; Perhaps not quite at the same rate, but in the same direction nonetheless. That means that one with Down Syndrome is more than capable of maturing, living a successful life, and exercising his or her right to the ultimate pursuit of happiness. This concept is important to understand as it allows for those without the condition to see Down Syndrome beyond its perceived limits.