March 21 is World Down Syndrome Day

Anyone can be an advocate for a friend or family member with Down syndrome.

Blog provided by the Genetics Section at The Children’s Hospital of San Antonio:
Dr. Elizabeth Roeder
Dr. Scott McLean
Rebecca Littlejohn, MS, CGC
Kimberly Nugent, MS, CGC

Did you know that one in 700 babies has Down syndrome, also called trisomy 21? This means about 6,000 babies with Down syndrome are born in the United States every year.

Down syndrome is caused by having three copies of the 21st chromosome rather than two copies. That is why the date March 21 (3-21) was selected for World Down Syndrome Day.

World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) was first observed in 2006 and has been officially recognized by the United Nations since 2012. When we celebrate WDSD, we raise global awareness about what Down syndrome is, we encourage our friends and relatives to recognize WSDS, and we support those who advocate for the rights, inclusion and well-being of people with Down syndrome.

Anyone can be an advocate for a friend or family member with Down syndrome, and raising awareness and sharing correct information is one way to do this. Celebrating WDSD is a great way to recognize the uniqueness and value of every person with Down syndrome in communities all over the world.

The Children’s Hospital of San Antonio has many doctors, nurses, and associates who care for children with Down syndrome and their families. Please join The Children’s Hospital of San Antonio in recognizing this special day!

Check out these local, national, and global websites about Down syndrome:

If you need a physician specializing in Down syndrome or other genetic conditions, please visit our website.