DOWN'S SYNDROME - Giorgia 5°E

Down’s Syndrome is a genetic disorder due to the presence of an extra chromosome 21 in every cell. The cause of Down’s Syndrome is still unknown, but we know that there are three types of chromosome abnormalities: trisomy 21, traslocation and mosaicism. Some physical features of a person with Down’s Syndrome are: almond eyes, decreased muscle tone, small ears, mouth, hands and feet. The physical features don’t cause any severe disability.

Children with Down’s Syndrome have a slower physical, mental and motor development than other children and show mental retardation. Language development is also delayed. Some health problems of people with Down’s Syndrome are: congenital heart disease, hearing and eye problems, obesity, thyroid dysfunctions, skeletal and immunologic problems and skin disorders.

There is no cure for Down’s Syndrome at the moment, but there are intervention programmes and education strategies in nursery schools and in primary and secondary schools that help the child’s cognitive and social development. Good job training helps young people with Down’s Syndrome to find employment so they can participate in community life.

The causes of the improper cell division resulting in Down’s Syndrome may be hormonal abnormalities, x-rays, viral infections, immunologic problems, advanced maternal age or genetic predisposition.