Down Syndrome

Down syndrome is a disorder that includes a combination of birth defects; among them, some degree of mental retardation, characteristic facial features and, often, heart defects, increased infections, problems with vision and hearing, and other health problems. It is caused by a chromosomal abnormality: for some unexplained reason, an accident in cell development results in 47 instead of the usual 46 chromosomes. This extra chromosome changes the orderly development of the body and brain. The severity of all of these problems varies greatly among affected individuals. Down syndrome is one of the most common genetic birth defects, affecting approximately one in 800 to 1,000 babies. It generally is caused by an extra chromosome, the structures in cells that contain the genetic information (genes).

Approximately 4,000 children with Down syndrome are born in the U.S. each year, or about 1 in every 800 to 1,000 live births. Although parents of any age may have child with Down Syndrome, the incidence is higher for women over 35. Most common forms of the syndrome do not usually occur more than once in a family. arrow: More...

RESOURCES

ORGANIZATIONS

    Local
  • Family and Friends of Children with Down Syndrome (Bakersfield)
    (661) 872-7620

    National

  • The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS)
    The National Down Syndrome Society is committed to being the national leader in enhancing the quality of life, and realizing the potential of all people with Down syndrome.
  • The National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC)
    The purpose of the NDSC is to promote the interests of persons with Down syndrome and their families through advocacy, public awareness, and information dissemination on all aspects of Down syndrome.
  • National Association for Down Syndrome (NADS)
    NADS provides support and resources for parents of newly diagnosed infants with Down syndrome as well as advocacy, referral and information services.

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