World Down Syndrome Day is being observed today across the globe, including Pakistan.
It is a congenital genetic condition, and children affected by it can be guided towards a normal life with proper attention from their parents. The day is observed every year on March 21. Down syndrome is a serious genetic condition, and children affected by it experience intellectual and physical disabilities of varying severity.
Down syndrome is also known as Trisomy 21. Children with Down syndrome have 47 chromosomes in their cells instead of the usual 46. This extra chromosome causes delays in mental development and physical disabilities.
According to the World Health Organization, one out of every 1,000 children worldwide may be born with Down syndrome, while the exact number of patients in Pakistan has not been determined.
Experts say that children with Down syndrome are generally very cheerful. They face difficulties in reading, writing, walking, thinking, and understanding. Despite their disabilities, these children possess other natural abilities and require special attention from their parents.
Experts further state that although children with Down syndrome may lag behind other children in certain abilities, with a little effort, care, and physical exercise, they can be helped to lead a good life.
