The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS), explains that “Down Syndrome occurs when an individual has a full or partial copy of chromosome 21.” Due to the extra genetic material, the course of development is altered leading to some common physical traits such as “low muscle tone, small stature, an upward slant to the eyes, and a single deep crease across the center of the palm.”
The month of October is recognized as National Down Syndrome Awareness Month. It is an opportunity to educate the public on the facts about Down Syndrome and celebrate the abilities of those born with this extra genetic material that can carry on full and happy lives. It is also a time to applaud the efforts of the medical community who continue to do research and find ways to improve the quality of life for people living with Down Syndrome.
Unfortunately. There are some health risks associated with Down Syndrome. The National Institutes of Health’s Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development lists the following:
- Heart defects
- Vision problems
- Hearing loss
- Infections
- Hypothyroidism
- Blood disorders
- Hypotonia (Poor muscle tone)
- Problems with the upper part of the spine
- Disrupted sleep patterns and sleep disorders
- Gum disease and dental problems
- Epilepsy
- Digestive problems
- Celiac disease
- Mental health and emotional problems
To schedule an appointment at any of our convenient Primary Medical Care Center community clinics, you may visit our website at www.primarymed.com, or call (305)751-1500 for our Miami-Dade clinic, or (954)289-0000 for our Broward clinic.
Source: https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/down/conditioninfo/associated