What is Down's Syndrome?

Down’s Syndrome is a genetic condition involving an extra chromosome which occurs around the time of conception. A person with Down’s Syndrome has forty seven chromosomes instead of the usual forty six.

People with Downs Syndrome all have a certain degree of learning disability. This means that they develop and learn more slowly than other children. However, most children with Down’s Syndrome today will walk and talk, most will read and write, go to mainstream school and look forward to a semi-independent adult life. Down’s Syndrome is not an illness. People with Down’s Syndrome do not ‘suffer’ as a result of the condition. With early intervention from parents and professionals and continued stimulation throughout life, most people with Down’s Syndrome will achieve well beyond former expectations.

How Common is Down's Syndrome?

On average, two babies are born with Down’s Syndrome each day in the UK. For every 1000 babies born, one will have Down’s Syndrome.

Although the chance of having a baby with Down’s Syndrome rises with maternal age, the majority of babies are born to younger women, since the overall birth rate is higher in this age group.