What is Down's Syndrome?

Down's Syndrome, also known as Trisomy 21, is caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. It is not a hereditary condition and occurs by chance at the time of conception. Down's Syndrome can occur in all ethnicities and social classes all around the world. 

Due to the extra chromosome people with Down's Syndrome will have some level of learning disability however this does not mean that they cannot learn or achieve. Each person is an individual in their own right and the amount of support they may need will vary from person to person. With the right support and intervention people with Down's Syndrome can lead healthy, fulfilling and independent lives. 

Myth:

People with Down's Syndrome do not lead long lives.

Fact:

Due to advances in modern medicine many people with Down's Syndrome live to over 60 years of age with the oldest reported person in the UK being 78 years of age.

Myth:

You can catch Down's Syndrome.

​Fact:

You cannot catch Down's Syndrome, it is a genetic condition.

Myth:

Children with Down's Syndrome cannot go to school or can only attend special schools.

​Fact:

Children with Down's Syndrome can and do attend school with many accessing mainstream education.

Myth:

People with Down's Syndrome are always happy.

​Fact:

People with Down's Syndrome go through every emotion just like everyone else although it is true though that they do bring a special kind of joy to everyone they meet with their humour, wit and charm.

Myth:

People with Down's Syndrome all look the same.

​Fact:

A person with Down's Syndrome will always look more like members of their close family than anyone else with Down's Syndrome although there are some physical attributes that can be present.

Myth:

People with Down's Syndrome cannot work or live independently.

​Fact:

People with Down's Syndrome can and do work, have friends and pastimes. Many live independently or with some support, get married and lead happy and fulfilling lives.