Written by second-year genetic counseling students, Josh Truong and Tess Williams
What is World Down Syndrome Awareness Day?
World Down Syndrome Awareness Day celebrates individuals with Down syndrome and raises awareness about the condition. The National Down Syndrome Society, the creators of this awareness day, aims to promote full inclusion for people with Down syndrome in their schools, workplaces, homes, and communities.
On December 19, 2011, the United Nations General Assembly officially declared March 21st as World Down Syndrome Awareness Day. The date chosen because people with Down syndrome have three copies of chromosome 21, represented by the third month and the 21st day (3/21).
Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal condition, with about 1 in 800 babies diagnosed each year. Despite being common, many people with Down syndrome still face barriers such as limited access to quality education, employment opportunities, healthcare, and the ability to make decisions about their own lives.
World Down Syndrome Awareness Day helps promote understanding, inclusion, and acceptance while amplifying the voices and experiences of people with Down syndrome throughout their communities.
What is Down syndrome?
Down syndrome is a genetic condition in which the body has an extra chromosome. Most people have 46 chromosomes, but individuals with Down syndrome have 47 chromosomes. Chromosomes are determined from the moment of conception. The extra chromosome in people with Down syndrome usually happens by chance and is not caused by an illness.
Because of this extra chromosome, people with Down syndrome may experience differences in how they look, learn, and grow. However, every person with Down syndrome is unique with their own personality, likes and dislikes, hobbies, and talents just like a person without Down syndrome.
Ways to Get Involved on World Down Syndrome Awareness Day
- Wear Bright, Mismatched Socks: One of the most recognizable traditions of World Down Syndrome Day is the #LotsOfSocks campaign. Chromosomes look like socks, and people with Down syndrome have three copies of chromosome 21 instead of two. Wearing bold, colorful, or mismatched socks on March 21 is a fun way to celebrate differences and spark conversations about Down syndrome.
- Share: Raising awareness can start with a simple conversation. Share information about Down syndrome with friends, family, classmates, or coworkers. Posting about World Down Syndrome Day on social media can help to spread awareness and encourage others to learn more!
- Advocate and Support: Consider supporting organizations that advocate for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. National groups like the National Down Syndrome Society work to provide advocacy, education, and resources across the country, while local organizations such as the Down Syndrome Alliance of the Midlands support families and promote inclusion within our communities here in Nebraska.
- Be Inclusive: Creating inclusive spaces helps ensure that individuals with Down syndrome feel valued in everyday life. This can look like encouraging your classroom or workplace to accept others with different abilities and planning community activities where everyone can participate. Even small actions like using inclusive language and advocating for others to be more inclusive can help to create a community where everyone belongs.
Why Genetic Counseling Matters
Genetic counselors help individuals and their families understand genetic conditions, like Down Syndrome. These providers explain complex genetic information in a clear and accessible way. A genetic counselor can also connect patients and families with educational and community support resources while coordinating with other healthcare providers to ensure patients receive comprehensive care.
If you or someone you know could benefit from genetic counseling, talk to your healthcare provider or Find a Genetic Counselor.
Resources:
Lots of Socks Campaign
National Down Syndrome Society
Down Syndrome Alliance of the Midlands
Jack’s Basket