Impact Of Down Syndrome On Child Development

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Down Syndrome (SD) is a genetic disorder caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21. With one in every 700 births resulting with Down Syndrome, understanding the impact of this condition on child development is crucial for providing optimal support and care for individuals affected by Down Syndrome. What are the causes of Down Syndrome? It is caused by: 1. Trisomy 21: The most common cause of Down Syndrome, accounting for 95% of all DS cases, is the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. 2. Mosaicism: It is a rare cause of Down Syndrome, accounting for 3-4% of DS cases. In this case, only some cells have the extra chromosomes. 3. Translocation: Translocation is a rare cause of DS, accounting for 2-3% of DS cases. In this case, part of the chromosome 21 breaks off and attaches to another chromosome. DS early identication measures include: 1. Prenatal testing: Prenatal tests such as amniocentesis and choronic villus sampling, can detect DS during pregnancy. 2. Newborn screening: Newborn screening tests can identify DS shortly after birth. 3. Physical examination: A thorough physical examination can identify the characteristic features of DS, such as flat face, short neck, and protruding tongue. The impact of DS on child development include: 1. Cognitive impairment: DS can cause cognitive impairment, ranging from mild to severe ones. 2. Speech and language delays: Children affected by DS may experience speech and language delays. 3. Motor skills development delays: Children with DS may experience delays in both gross and fine motor skills development. 4. Increased risks of health problems: Children with DS are at increased risks of health problems such as heart defects, respiratory infections, and hearing loss. How does DS biologically affect child's development? 1. Overexpression of genes: The extra copy of chromosome 21 leads to overexpression of genes, which can disrupt normal brain and body development. 2. Altered brain structure: Infallible studies have shown that individuals with DS have altered brain structures, including reduced volume of hippocampus and amygdala. 3. Neurotransmitter imbalance: Individuals with DS may have an imbalance of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, which can affect mood and behaviours. Some international agencies and organizations have made frantic efforts to mitigate DS across the world. They include: 1. World Health Organization (WHO): WHO has developed guidelines and resources for the care and management of children with DS. 2. United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF): UNICEF has launched initiatives to promote inclusion and accessibility for children with DS. 3. Down Syndrome International (DSI): The DSI is a global organization that advocates for the rights and inclusion of children with DS. 4. National Down Syndrome Society of America: The NDSS is a leading advocate organization that provides resources, support, and advocacy for individuals with DS and their families. 5. US Down Syndrome Diagnosis Act: It was enacted in 2008, and it aims to ensure that families receiving DS diagnosis receive accurate and unbiased information. 6. US Achieving Better Life Experience Act: It was signed into law in 2014. It allows individuals with disabilities, including DS, to save for expenses related to their disabilities without jeopardizing their eligibility for government benefits. 7. US Individuals with Disabilities Education Act: It ensures that children with disabilities, including DS, have access to free and appropriate public education. 8. European Down Syndrome Association EDSA is an umbrella organization that represents national Down Syndrome associations across Europe, advocating for the rights and interests of individuals with DS. 9. EU Disability Strategy 2010-2020: This strategy aims to promote equality and accessibility for individuals with disabilities, including those with DS. 10. European Accessibility Act: This Act aims to improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities, including those with DS, in areas such as education, employment, and transportation. All these initiatives above demonstrate their commitment to improving the lives of individuals with DS and their families. In summary, as we continue to advance our understanding of Down Syndrome and its dreadful impact on child's development, it is essential that we prioritize the well-beings, dignity, and human rights of individuals with Down Syndrome, fostering a society that values and celebrates diversity in all its forms. Please, kindly share this post with your friends and loved ones. Thank you very much.

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