March 21: World Down Syndrome Day

CAIRO – 21 March 2022: Down Syndrome is a normal arrangement of chromosomes that has always existed in humans and is present in all regions of the world. It often has varying effects on learning styles, physical traits or health.

Appropriate access to health care, early intervention, inclusive education programs and appropriate research are essential to individual growth and development.

The United Nations General Assembly adopted in December 2011 resolution 66/149, which provides for the declaration of March 21 as World Down Syndrome Day, to be observed annually starting in 2012.

The General Assembly called on all Member States, relevant organizations of the United Nations system, other international organizations and civil society, including NGOs and the private sector, to observe World Down Syndrome Day in an appropriate manner to raise public awareness of it.

The number of people with Down syndrome is estimated between 1 in 1,000 to 1 in 1,100 live births worldwide. Each year, approximately 3,000 to 5,000 children are born with this genetic disorder. It is also believed that there are about 250,000 families in the United States of America who have been affected by Down Syndrome.

The quality of life of people with Down Syndrome can be improved by meeting their health care needs, which include regular medical examinations to monitor mental and physical development and timely intervention, whether in physical therapy, counseling or special education.

Also, people with Down Syndrome can also achieve an optimal quality of life through parental care, support, medical guidance, and existing support systems in the community, such as providing private schools.

All of these arrangements help to involve people with Down Syndrome in the community to empower them and achieve their self-actualization.