Facts about Down syndrome

  • Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal condition 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 every 691 births in the United States. It is not related to race, nationality, religion or socio-economic status.
  • About 5,000 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……