Down’s Syndrome (also called Trisomy 21) is a chromosomal abnormality caused by the presence of an extra copy of the 21st chromosome in a person’s cells. It is the most common chromosomal abnormality, affecting approximately 1 in every 700 newborns.
People with Down’s Syndrome can experience a range of physical, cognitive and medical challenges throughout their lives.
The most common physical health challenges of Down’s Syndrome are low muscle tone, vision and hearing difficulties, heart defects and sleep apnea. Additionally, someone with Down’s Syndrome is at a greater risk of developing thyroid disorders, diabetes and obesity.
Cognitively, a child with Down’s Syndrome may experience delayed development and struggle in areas such as language, communication, problem solving and abstract thinking. While there have been huge advances in understanding Down’s Syndrome in recent years, social challenges remain as the syndrome often detracts from an individual’s ability to form relationships and be socially independent.
In terms of medical complications, individuals with Down’s Syndrome have higher risks of developing acute leukaemia. Older adults with Down’s Syndrome may experience Alzheimer’s, where their brain cells degenerate more quickly and there is an acceleration in the decline of their intellectual functioning.
Although there is no cure for Down’s Syndrome, early intervention and treatment plans tailored to the patient’s needs can help them lead a relatively normal life with relative independence. Good medical, behavioural and educational management has been seen to help children and adults with Down’s Syndrome develop self-care skills and therefore experience better quality of life.
What health issues are related to Down syndrome?
Down syndrome is a genetic disorder caused when an individual has an extra chromosome. It is typically associated with physical growth delays, certain physical characteristics, and varying degrees of cognitive disability.
Common health issues related to Down syndrome include respiratory problems, congenital heart defects, hearing problems, vision impairments, thyroid issues, and increased risk of childhood leukemia. Individuals with Down syndrome are also more likely to encounter issues with digestion, sleep disturbances, obesity, and skin disorders such as eczema.
Additionally, as people with Down syndrome age, they can experience joint and bone problems, Alzheimer’s disease, and an increased likelihood of developing certain types of cancer. Despite any challenges, people with Down syndrome can lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
With proper medical care and support from family, friends, and peers, people with Down syndrome can reach their potential.
What is the most common cause of death in Down syndrome?
The most common cause of death in Down Syndrome is complications related to a heart defect. Some of the cardiac defects associated with Down Syndrome include Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD), Atrioventricular Septal Defect (AVSD), Atrioventricular Canal Defect (AVCD), Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF), and transposition of the great arteries.
These defects can lead to congestive heart failure, cardiomyopathy, arrhythmias, and sudden death. Other common causes of death in individuals with Down Syndrome include respiratory infections such as pneumonia, neurological problems, endocrine or metabolic disorders, or leukemia.
Less common causes of death in Down Syndrome involve complications of the gastrointestinal or musculoskeletal systems.
What is the life expectancy of Down syndrome?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the life expectancy for people with Down syndrome is around 60 years. However, this number is increasing as medical and social advances help those with the condition live longer.
The average life expectancy for individuals with Down syndrome in the United States has increased from 25 years in 1983 to 60 years in 2018. In general, people with Down syndrome tend to live healthy lives, but they are more likely to have certain medical conditions such as heart defects, thyroid disorders, respiratory issues, and mobility issues.
With proper medical care and general awareness, people with Down syndrome can experience a good quality of life regardless of age.
What do people with Down syndrome struggle with the most?
People with Down syndrome may experience a range of physical and mental challenges. Generally, the most common and challenging issue for people with Down syndrome is intellectual disability. People with Down syndrome typically have an IQ between 40 and 70, which is significantly lower than the general population.
This can mean that, compared to typically developing individuals, they may function at a lower cognitive level, have a slower processing speed, and tend to take longer to complete tasks and process information.
Other struggles associated with Down syndrome are physical and medical. Physical development is often delayed, meaning they may lack strength and coordination. Additionally, they may be at an increased risk of developing associated medical complications such as cardiac issues, hearing and vision problems, thyroid disorder, and obstructive sleep apnea.
Moreover, people with Down syndrome often experience difficulties with communication and language, both in terms of understanding what is said and expressing themselves clearly. Many individuals may also experience difficulties with social skills, and behavior problems such as impulsiveness, outbursts, or hyperactivity.
Overall, those with Down syndrome may face numerous physical, mental, and behavioral challenges and a decrease in cognitive abilities that can make everyday activities difficult at times.
