Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21)
Introduction[edit | edit source]
Welcome to our information page. This resource is intended for families of persons with Down syndrome (DS). It is common for members of families containing an individuals with DS to conduct research to better understand the unique challenges they may face, or to prepare for what the future my hold. There is a large number of resources available surrounding Down snydrome, and this can be overwhelming and intimidating. The purpose of this learning resource is to consolidate this information into one page, clarify the key aspects and make learning easier.
Through summarization and critical analysis of current literature, it is the goal of this page to provide families of persons with DS a comprehensive, easily understood learning resource that they can feel confident in consulting. This resource further intends to educate the readers on projected expectations over the lifespan of an individual with DS, ease concerns, and highlight the role of physiotherapy in the care and management of Down syndrome. After reading this resource, it is the hope of the authors that readers will feel encouraged and confident in self-management, allowing the family to better cope at home, and be better able to understand when and how to seek professional guidance, should they require support.
Learning Journey[edit | edit source]
It is the goal of the authors, that after reading this page you will:
What is Down Syndrome? [edit | edit source]
DS is the most common chromosomal disease world wide (NDSS 2018), with 1 in 650 births resulting in a child with DS (Cipriani et al. 2018). In the UK alone, there are over 41,000 people living with down syndrome, and 750 individuals with DS born each year (Carr and Collins 2018). These numbers are expected to rise in the coming years due to medical advancements which have increased the life expectancy in people with DS from age 9 in 1929 to 60 years of age today (Zhu et al. 2013). With the increase in number of people who have DS and the increased age of this population, there will be many new challenges which health professionals and families will have to overcome. This wiki is necessary to inform families of individuals with DS about what to expect in a changing environment, with a specific focus on physiotherapy management.
Developmental Milestones[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
see adding references tutorial.
