World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) is officially observed on 21st March every year by the United Nations Organization. The date 21st for World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) was selected on basis of the uniqueness of trisomy of the 21st chromosome which causes Down Syndrome. On this day, people with Down Syndrome who live and work would participate in various activities to spread awareness about it. They would unite together all over the globe to create a single voice advocating their rights about well-being and healthy living. People with Down Syndrome all over the world will be coming together at United Nations Geneva and New York to talk about their lives and health.
The theme of World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) 21st March 2021
Raise awareness by wearing lots of socks and post your pictures on social media using #LotsofSocks or #WDSD2021. You might be wondering the reason behind it!!! People with Down Syndrome have an extra chromosome. They have three copies of chromosome 21 hence the day is aptly chosen as 21/3 (21st March) every year. Also, it is important to note that the “Lots of Socks” fundraising campaign is a worldwide campaign run by Down Syndrome International.
Know more about the reason behind Socks for Down Syndrome
The pictures of chromosomes look the same and depict like socks. Sometimes, people just have an extra copy of chromosome 21. We should understand their concern. People living with Down Syndrome are just like us. They laugh, live, cry, enjoy and share the same set of feeling as us. People with Down Syndrome should be given equal opportunities for friendship, acceptance, respect, and work in society World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) is observed to create and spread awareness enabling people with Down Syndrome to live happily and independently with respect in society. They should enjoy their work and life to live with confidence among the peer and friends in the society.
Know more about Down Syndrome
Down Syndrome is a naturally occurring congenital disorder in which there is an extra copy of chromosome 21. As per the report by the United Nations, it affects 1 in 800 births worldwide causing intellectual disability and associated medical health-related disorders. It is a genetic disorder in which there is an extra full or partial chromosome disorder. People with Down Syndrome have a lot of potential health problems.
Down Syndrome Features
Many characteristic features of trisomy 21 are as follows:
A round face with a flat profile Upward turned eyes A large tongue that may protrude from the mouth Small head (Brachycephaly) Clinodactyly: A single crease across the palm of each hand, short stubby fingers with the pink finger that curves inward. Short in height Stocky built Low muscle time (hypotonia) Awkward movement while walking Small nose, mouth, and ears Intellectual and Development: There is some degree of intellectual development and delayed milestones. They tend to learn slowly and struggle to undertake complex tasks.Treatment of Down Syndrome
Most kids and children with Down Syndrome need various therapies. Parents having children with Down Syndrome work their level best to make them independent. They aim at giving them a normal life by building their confidence to have a better future.
Early intervention is a must
The sooner children with Down Syndrome receive special attention and individualized care the better. The specific health issues should be addressed to take care of their developmental needs. Early intervention such as speech therapy and occupational therapy is a very important step. The goal is to achieve a multifaceted approach to treat Down Syndrome to help people with this disorder to live an independent life.