What is Down Syndrome: Facts vs Myths
Down syndrome is one of the most famous and most common genetic disorders. Yet Down syndrome remains one of the most misunderstood genetic disorders out there. Because of so much misinformation, it is hard to believe what is true. But what is Down syndrome? What are the symptoms of Down syndrome? We are gonna find this all out in this blog and will be debunking some of the myths about Down syndrome as well.
What Is Down Syndrome?
Down syndrome is a genetic condition that is caused by an extra chromosome. So, normally humans have 46 chromosomes, but in the case of people with Down syndrome, they have 47 chromosomes. So, because of this, they have additional physical and intellectual development.
What Is The Difference Between Autism And Down Syndrome?
One of the biggest misconceptions that people have is that both autism and Down syndrome are the same. This is the number one myth and both autism and Down syndrome are different conditions. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder and the cause is unknown. However, in the case of Down syndrome, the cause is a single chromosome that is responsible for this disorder. Similarly, autism can be diagnosed based on behavioural assessments, whereas, Down syndrome can be diagnosed by doing genetic testing when the mother is pregnant with the child. Also, autism affects communication and social interaction and also includes repetitive behaviours. Whereas, in Down syndrome, we normally see that it affects intellectual ability and there is a delay in mental and physical development.
Common Myths About Down Syndrome
In the UK, every 1 in 1000 babies have Down Syndrome, but the misinformation about it is more. The myths circulating on social media have instilled fear into the minds of new parents dealing with Down syndrome and because of this, many parents are hesitant to go for any treatment or whatsoever. Here are some common myths about Down syndrome that seriously need to be debunked:
Myth 1: People With Down Syndrome Have a Short Life Expectancy
Fact: Because of the advances in medical technology and science, we have seen how the life expectancy of people with Down syndrome has increased. Now people with Down syndrome can live up to 70 years with proper care and support.
Myth 2: Parents who are Old Have Children with Down Syndrome
Fact: The truth is that 85% of children are born to women under the age of 35, which means that it has nothing to do with older parents; however, the Centres for Disease Control does mention that the chances of having a baby with Down syndrome do increase with age.
Myth 3: People who have Down Syndrome cannot Walk Or play Sports
Fact: The inability to walk or not play sports is something that cannot be associated with Down syndrome. People with Down syndrome can play sports like everybody else and most times, they also have more agility than normal humans.
Myth 4: People with Down Syndrome are Either Stubborn or Very Happy
Fact: This is another myth that needs to be debunked because people with Down syndrome experience the same emotions as everybody else; however, they do find it difficult to express their emotions.
Myth 5: People with Down Syndrome cannot Read or Write
Fact: This is also a very common myth, however, it is not true. People with Down syndrome can read and write and with proper support, they can also excel in studies. Many people with Down syndrome are not only degree holders but have also excelled in their fields.
Myth 6: People with Down Syndrome cannot Have any Children
Fact: Although, indeed, people with Down syndrome cannot have children, women who have Down syndrome are fertile like every other woman out there and they can give birth to children.
What Is the Treatment For Down Syndrome?
There is no cure for Down syndrome, but that doesn’t mean there’s no hope—far from it. Treatment for Down syndrome focuses on supporting the individual’s unique needs and helping them live a fulfilling, independent life. This often involves a combination of early intervention programs, educational support, physical therapy, speech and language therapy, and occupational therapy. Medical treatment may also be necessary for associated health conditions like heart defects, hearing issues, or thyroid problems. A multidisciplinary team approach—doctors, therapists, educators, and most importantly, family—is key. With the right care and support, individuals with Down syndrome can thrive in school, work, and community life.
Conclusion
While there is no cure for Down syndrome, we now know that there are so many myths that have surrounded us for such a long time, and busting these myths is very important so that we can create awareness for people with Down syndrome. So, now if anyone asks you, what is Down syndrome? You would know the answer to it.
FAQs:
1. Can Down syndrome be cured?
No, there is no cure for Down syndrome, but early intervention and comprehensive care can improve the quality of life.
2. How is Down syndrome diagnosed?
Down syndrome can be diagnosed during pregnancy through prenatal screenings and genetic tests or after birth through physical examination and chromosomal analysis.
3. What is the life expectancy of someone with Down Syndrome?
In the past few decades, we see that the life expectancy of people with Down syndrome has increased up to the 60s and even 70s
