The North West Department of Health is celebrating National Down Syndrome Month, during which the month of October is dedicated to increase awareness of Down syndrome.
According to the provincial department, former President Nelson Mandela proclaimed October 20 as National Down Syndrome Day in South Africa, a day intended to raise awareness of Down syndrome.
The provincial department cited the 2016 South Africa Medical Journal (SAMJ) in stating that Down syndrome is the most prevalent chromosomal condition in infants, with a birth prevalence of approximately 2 per 1000 live births.
“The condition is a congenital chromosomal abnormality. Trisomy 21 is characterized by the presence of an extra 21 chromosomes, which causes delays in physical and mental development.”
This year’s theme, according to Down Syndrome South Africa (DSSA), is “Inclusion Means I Belong.”
“Throughout the month of October, individuals with Down syndrome commemorate this theme by explaining what inclusion means to them.” It is their right to belong to an accepting family and community that provides for their needs. It is their right to be enrolled in their neighborhood school, according to the agency.
According to DSSA, this includes the right to be taught and skilled to be able to have a job with significant compensation and to belong to a community that fosters their participation in sports and cultural organizations.
“Although Down syndrome cannot be fixed, a variety of medical care treatments are available to address the syndrome’s related difficulties,” the agency stated.
However, early intervention programs can aid with skill development. These may include speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and/or educational treatment.
“Children with Down syndrome can attend conventional schools and follow standard academic standards. People with Down Syndrome have a life expectancy of 50 to 55 years.
Facts concerning Down syndrome:
Down syndrome is associated with mild to moderate mental impairment.
There is no correlation between age, race, religion, or socioeconomic status and Down syndrome.
Down syndrome affects one in 1,000 babies born in wealthy nations, but one in 650 babies born in poor nations.
80% of children with Down syndrome are born to moms before the age of 35, while the likelihood of having a child with Down syndrome increases for women over the age of 35.