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An artist moves paintings at the Mexican School of Down Art in Mexico City, Oct. 19, 2007.
An artist moves paintings at the Mexican School of Down Art in Mexico City, Oct. 19, 2007.
Down Syndrome
Down syndrome is a genetic condition that causes a person to face a distinct set of physical and mental challenges. Although raising a Down syndrome child or supporting an adult with the condition can be difficult, having the right information can make life a little easier for everyone.
Expand All Guide SectionsWhat Is Down Syndrome?
To learn more about the basics of Down syndrome and a little about the genetic aspects of the condition, use the Web sites in this section.
Insights for Down Syndrome
- Trisomy 21 is another name for Down syndrome.
Top Sites for Learning About Down Syndrome
Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters
discusses Trisomy 21, focusing specifically on what trisomies are, what Down syndrome is and what causes the condition.
St. George’s University of London
explains more about the genetic aspect of Down syndrome, with information about cells, genes and chromosomes. Don’t miss the “Some questions we have been asked” section for more answers to issues of interest.
KidsHealth
explains what Down syndrome is using terms younger children will understand. Another article elaborates on the meaning of “mental retardation,” and there is a discussion of what genes are.
Down Syndrome Testing and Treatment
Down syndrome tests can be performed during pregnancy or after a baby is born. Although there is no treatment for children with this condition, they may have certain problems that need to be managed.
Insights for Down Syndrome Testing and Treatment
- WebMD offers an article about a safe blood test for detecting Down syndrome before birth soon.
Top Sites for Learning About Down Syndrome Testing and Treatment
The Mayo Clinic
reviews the tests a woman can receive during pregnancy to determine whether a baby has Down syndrome.
WebMD
describes the karyotype test, which is necessary for officially diagnosing Down syndrome once a child is born, and the initial tests and check-ups that will be performed during the baby’s first month and throughout his or her life.
The University of Maryland Medical Center
explains that while Down syndrome has no specific treatment, certain issues, like a gastrointestinal blockage or heart defects, may require surgery.
Preparing for a Down Syndrome Child
Children with Down syndrome often face special challenges that parents must be ready for. The Web sites below can help you be better prepared to welcome a Down syndrome baby to your family.
Insights for Preparing for a Down Syndrome Child
- A variety of national and international organizations exist to support parents and children with special needs. For example, La Leche League International has a pamphlet available for breastfeeding a Down syndrome baby (a $4 fee is required).
- For more information on raising a Down syndrome baby, read “Babies with Down Syndrome.”
Top Sites for Down Syndrome Development
The National Down Syndrome Congress
helps new parents start preparing to care for a Down syndrome child, and also offers insightful pages for learning how to cope with Down syndrome.
The March of Dimes
describes some of the physical hurdles people with Down syndrome may face, and elaborates on the degrees of mental retardation that are experienced. The site also explains whether Down syndrome children can attend school.
The National Down Syndrome Society
provides a variety of articles about Down syndrome behavioral issues, transition and adulthood, therapy and development and more. In some cases, resource lists of other organizations that can help with a particular issue are available.
FamilyDoctor.org
answers some questions about the needs of adults with Down syndrome, such as preventive health care, estate planning and proper living arrangements. This site is operated by the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Down Syndrome Educational Programs
With programs catered specifically to special needs children and adults, people with Down syndrome can find wonderful educational opportunities. Learn more with these Web sites.
Top Sites for Down Syndrome Education and Living Programs
Down Syndrome Education International
is an organization aimed at improving the education of Down syndrome individuals worldwide. Learn about the group’s programs and how to get involved with the work.
The National Association for Child Development
reviews educational and developmental possibilities for people with Down syndrome and other challenges. Follow the “How to Get Started” link to become involved with the program.
Finding Support for Down Syndrome
Difficult situations can be made easier to handle with the help and knowledge provided by a good support group. The resources recommended here can help you find Down syndrome support resources to suit your needs.
Insights for Down Syndrome Support
- Down syndrome advocacy is an important issue even in Washington, D.C., Learn more in this article from The Hill.
- To help others learn about Down syndrome, consider books like “My Friend Has Down Syndrome (Let’s Talk About It)” and “My Friend Isabelle.” “Gifts: Mothers Reflect on How Children with Down Syndrome Enrich Their Lives” can also offer support for parents.
Top Sites for Down Syndrome Support
International Mosaic Down Syndrome Association
provides several different support opportunities for Down syndrome, including links to an online group for professionals connected with the condition, parents of Down syndrome teens and adults and a PenPal Project.
The National Association for Down Syndrome
offers discussion forums for adult, health and educational issues involving Down syndrome patients.
The Genetic Alliance
promotes public policy changes related to genetic issues. Find policy statements and event information, or search the plentiful information provided in the Resource Repository. The organization says its mission includes “transforming health through genetics.”
The Special Olympics
chronicles the unique sporting events available for special needs children through this organization and also offers inspiring success stories of individuals who have overcome challenges.
Who knew?
Down Syndrome Dolls
offers dolls that reflect the characteristics of a person with Down syndrome.
Down Syndrome Research and News
Keep current with Down syndrome research and news developments using the Web sites included here.
Insights for Down Syndrome Research and News
- In some instances, research centers and other organizations provide very topic-specific news stories about Down syndrome. This article from the Stanford University School of Medicine Research Center discusses the dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism.
Top Sites for Down Syndrome Research and News
WebMD
contains an extensive library of news articles related to Down syndrome and medical developments related to the condition. Enter the terms “Down syndrome” in WebMD's search box for access to the lastest information.
The National Down Syndrome Society
provides national news updates about Down syndrome, as well as stories regarding the organization.
U.S. News & World Report
also supplies a collection of stories related to Down syndrome.
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