What is Down Syndrome? – A quick guide to understand your child’s diagnosis

Has your child been diagnosed with Down Syndrome? It is possible you are hearing this term for the first time, or know something about it in parts.

Down Syndrome (DS) is a genetic condition caused due to an difference in chromosome 21. The most common form of Down Syndrome is Trisomy 21, in which body cells acquire three instead of two copies of chromosome 21.

Please read and download the Down Syndrome Factsheet shown above, to learn about the signs, causes, therapies and help you may need to understand and care for your child’s health and needs.

Remember, with good support, practices and family involvement children diagnosed with Down Syndrome can very much lead a happy and good life.

You might want to read about the myths and biases surrounding Down Syndrome here. Also, do check out this video on Down Syndrome success stories.

Acknowledgements: Special thanks to Consultant Dr Ajay Sharma, Neurodevelopment Pediatrician, who has offered expert advice and guidance in consolidating this information.

We thank our volunteers Mr Satya Vemuru and Ms Sailaja Tadimeti for the time and effort taken towards translating this content from English to Telugu.

If you have questions about Autism, Down Syndrome, ADHD, or other Intellectual Disabilities, or have concerns about developmental delays in a child, the Nayi Disha team is here to help. For any questions or queries, please contact our FREE Helpline at 844-844-8996. You can call or send us a message on WhatsApp. Our counsellors speak different languages including English, Hindi, Malayalam, Gujarati, Marathi, Telugu, and Bengali.

DISCLAIMER: Please note that this guide is for information purposes only. Please consult a qualified health practitioner for proper guidance.