Down Syndrome: Myths & Facts

Down syndrome occurs when extra genetic material from chromosome 21 results from abnormal cell division. People with Down syndrome have a distinctive facial appearance, intellectual disability, and developmental delays. Thyroid disorders and heart disorders may be associated with the condition.

The management of Down syndrome involves early intervention programs with a team of therapists and educators who can treat the child’s specific situation. However, like various health conditions, there are a lot of myths associated with Down syndrome. Such myths make it more difficult for people to deal with it.

Here’s busting some myths about Down syndrome that will make you aware of the reality of the condition:

Down syndrome Myths

Myth: The lifespan of a person with Down syndrome is relatively short

Fact: There are several factors that determine how long an individual lives. Having regular medical checkups and interventions will allow the person with Down syndrome to live a normal life. Medical advances, such as the ability to detect and treat heart defects, and a shift in attitudes within the medical field, have led to an increase in life experience to 58 years old. Despite this, many people with Down syndrome live to be over 60 years old.

Myth: A person with Down syndrome cannot accomplish normal life goals

Fact: They can succeed if they have the right support. Most people with Down syndrome can walk and talk, and some have attended mainstream schools, passed exams, and are now semi-independent adults. There are many educational, social, cultural, and recreational activities available for people with Down syndrome. As part of the typical education system, they take part in sports, music, and art programs, as well as other community activities.

Myth: Down syndrome people look alike

Fact: It’s possible for a person to have certain physical characteristics. There can be some or all of them in someone with Down syndrome. The appearance of someone with this syndrome will typically resemble that of his or her close family member. For instance, many Down syndrome patients with almond-shaped eyes and short stature.

Myth: Babies with Down syndrome are only born to older mothers

Fact: Because of women having more children when they are younger, Down-syndrome is most common in children born to women younger than 35. There is, however, an increased risk of having a child with Down-syndrome as the mother ages, particularly after the age of 35.

Myth: Down-syndrome is a rare condition

Fact: Among chromosomal disorders, Down-syndrome is the most common. 1 baby out of 1000 is born with it.

Myth: Down-syndrome patients are always happy

Fact: Down-syndrome is not that different from normal people. Feelings and moods are the same for everyone. Several studies have found that people with Down-syndrome are more likely to have depression. The condition may be under-treated as well. Attending school, work, and social events, as well as having adaptive life skills, is important for adults with Down-syndrome.

Myth: Down syndrome patients cannot live independently or find employment

Fact: The myth goes back decades and is completely untrue. Each individual is affected differently by Down-syndrome. Hence, people may be very independent in some situations, while others need a greater amount of support. People with Down-syndrome can become independent, educated, and earn a living on their own. Several individuals with Down’s syndrome grow up to contribute significantly to society.

Myth: Down-syndrome patients cannot have children

Fact: A person with Down-syndrome may face significant challenges in raising a child. However, women with Down-syndrome can conceive and have children. According to older studies, men with Down-syndrome are infertile, but there have been a handful of instances where men with Down-syndrome have fathered children.

Myth: Down syndrome patients are overweight

Fact: People with Down-syndrome do not always gain weight. However, obesity in Down-syndrome patients, as compared to the typical population, needs further study. Researchers found there is a greater risk of obesity among women and men with Down-syndrome than among the broader population. Down-syndrome patients who are overweight often have a low metabolic rate and a thyroid issue. Hence, it is important that everyone eats well and exercises.

Down-syndrome is a lifelong health condition. Though it can’t be cured completely, with proper care & support, people suffering from the condition can live their life a much better way. If you are looking to get in touch with experts to know more about Down-syndrome or want to know more, Call: 888 0101 000 now!