Down syndrome (or Trisomy 21) is a condition in which a person has an extra chromosome.
Most people have 23 pairs of chromosomes – 46 in total.
People with Down syndrome have an extra chromosome added onto the 21st pair – 47 in total.
Chromosomes act like an instruction manual that defines how our bodies look and how they work.
People who have Down syndrome usually have an intellectual disability. This is different in each person.
Some health conditions are more common in people with Down syndrome.
Around 1 in every 800 babies will be born with Down syndrome.
Down syndrome occurs naturally – there is no known cause.
About Down syndrome – presentation
We have created a presentation to explain how Down syndrome occurs. Learn about cells, chromosomes and genes and what they do.
The presentation is available in our resource hub – sign up to WDSD to access the hub:
Chromosomes…
“Chromosomes R Us” is a short film explaining how Down syndrome (or Trisomy 21) occurs.
This film was made by actors with Down syndrome, with Shabang Inclusive Learning in collaboration with Mediapreview, Huddersfield, UK.
This film was made possible by generous funding from BBC Children in Need.
Down syndrome answers
The Canadian Down Syndrome Society found the most asked questions about Down syndrome on Google.
They asked 10 Canadians with Down syndrome to give their answers.
Click below to hear what they had to say, on the Candian Down Syndrome Society website:
Just like you
People with Down syndrome have an inherent right to be accepted and included as valued and equal members of the community.
The video ‘Just Like You’ is an example of how this is happening.
This video was jointly funded, produced and directed by two Kansas City, United States non-profit organisations.
‘About Down syndrome’ information pack
Down Syndrome International has produced an information pack covering topics relevant to people with Down syndrome. Topics include diagnosis, early development, health, education, employment and much more.
The information pack is available in English and Spanish in our resource hub – sign up to WDSD to access the hub:
Sign up to hear from the World Down Syndrome Day team about how you can get involved.
You will also get access to our FREE resources including guides for advocacy, schools and organisations, posters, templates and lots more to help you to mark this important day.
Together we will create a single global voice advocating for the rights, inclusion and well being of people with Down syndrome.
