Facts About Down Syndrome

• Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal abnormality in humans.

• Down syndrome occurs when a person's cells contain 47 chromosomes instead of 46.

• The cause of Down syndrome is unknown. Nothing a mother does or doesn't do during pregnancy causes Down syndrome.

• Down syndrome occurs about once in 800 live births. It is not related to race, nationality, religion or socio-economic status.

• More than 6,000 people are born with Down syndrome in the U.S. each year.

• While age in the mother can be a factor, 80% of people with Down syndrome are born to mothers under 35, the average age being 26.

• Down syndrome occurs evenly in males and females.

• Down syndrome results in some degree of developmental disability and there may or may not be other medical issues.

• Life expectancy for an individual with Down syndrome is on average 55-60 years.

What we know about People with Down Syndrome

• Every person with Down syndrome is unique, with his/her own personality, talents and thoughts.

• People with Down syndrome are more similar to other people than they are different.

• They thrive in loving homes and benefit from early intervention, medical care and positive public attitudes.

• They can attend neighborhood schools with their peers.

• They are holding competitive jobs and living in the community.

• They are dancers, skiers, swimmers, office workers, childcare providers and so much more......