An official State of Texas website.
Down Syndrome Awareness Month in October is the perfect time to learn more about the most common chromosomal condition in the United States.
About 5,700 babies are born and diagnosed with Down syndrome in the U.S. each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While most babies are born with 46 chromosomes (23 from each parent), an extra copy of chromosome 21 in those with Down syndrome impacts how their bodies and brains develop.
People with Down syndrome have a higher risk for respiratory, hearing and eye-related issues, congenital heart defects, thyroid disorders, and other medical conditions. Babies diagnosed with Down syndrome will likely experience developmental delays in gross and fine motor skills, language skills, social development and self-help skills.
Starting supportive services early for children with Down syndrome helps maximize their potential for growth and independence. These services include speech and language therapy, occupational therapy and physical therapy.
Early intervention professionals can help parents and guardians develop skills and strategies to support their child’s growth. Services are individualized to the family’s needs and occur in the home or a familiar location.
“One of the core principles in Early Childhood Intervention is that family members are the experts on helping their child and can have the most impact on their child’s development,” explained therapist consultant Carol Elskes, Texas Early Childhood Intervention.
The Health and Human Services Commission Early Childhood Intervention Services and Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Healthy Texas Mothers and Babies initiative both offer support for families with children that have been diagnosed with Down syndrome.
To learn more, visit the DSHS Down Syndrome webpage.