rome day is being observed today on 21st March. Since 2006 this day is being observed. This year Down Syndrome is being observed at a national level and the slogan is:Down Syndrome: what to be done
Down Syndrome day is being observed today on 21st March. Since 2006 this day is being observed. This year Down Syndrome is being observed at a national level and the slogan is:
Aamar Bondhu, Aamar Samaj; Poribesh Shobar Ekibhutho, Ajker Shishu Bhalobeshe, Anbe Shufol Shobar Sheshe which maybe translated as #MyFriendsMyCommunity - The benefits of inclusive environments for todays children and tomorrows adults.
In every cell in the human body there is a nucleus, where genetic material is stored in genes. Genes carry the codes responsible for all of our inherited traits and are grouped along rod-like structures called chromosomes. Typically, the nucleus of each cell contains 23 pairs of chromosomes, half of which are inherited from each parent. Down syndrome occurs when an individual has a full or partial extra copy of chromosome 21.
This additional genetic material alters the course of development and causes the characteristics associated with Down syndrome. A few of the common physical traits of Down syndrome are low muscle tone, small stature, an upward slant to the eyes, and a single deep crease across the center of the palm - although each person with Down syndrome is a unique individual and may possess these characteristics to different degrees, or not at all.
According to World Health Organization, WHO there is 1 child born with Down Syndrome out of every 800. There are 7 million people with Down Syndrome around the world today. There are 5000 babies born with Down Syndrome in Bangladesh every year. There are 200,000 people living with Down Syndrome in our country.
Increasing maternal age is a risk factor for Down Syndrome. 1 in every 1200 mothers aged above 25 years, 1 in every 900 mothers aged above 30years and 1 in every 100 mothers aged above 40years.
At birth, babies with Down syndrome usually have certain characteristic signs, including:
Flat facial features.
Small head and ears.
Short neck.
Bulging tongue.
Eyes that slant upward.
Oddly shaped ears.
Poor muscle tone.
Developmental delay
Mental retardation
Heart defects
Dysfunctions of thyroid gland which may greatly increase or worsen intelligence The following steps maybe considered to prepare yourself and to care for your child:
Find a team of trusted professionals. Youll need to make important decisions about your childs education and treatment. Build a team of health care providers, teachers and therapists you trust. These professionals can help evaluate the resources in your area and explain state and federal programs for children with disabilities.
Seek out other families who are dealing with the same issues. Most communities have support groups for parents of children with Down syndrome. You can also find Internet support groups. Family and friends can also be a source of understanding and support.
Expect a bright future. Most people with Down syndrome live with their families or independently, go to mainstream schools, read and write, and have jobs. People with Down syndrome can live fulfilling lives.
Theres no way to prevent Down syndrome. If youre at high risk of having a child with Down syndrome or you already have one child with Down syndrome, you may want to consult a genetic counselor before becoming pregnant. A genetic counselor can help to understand your chances of having a child with Down syndrome. He or she can also explain the prenatal tests that are available and help explain the pros and cons of testing.
