What is down's Syndrome?

It is a chromosomal abnormality found in children. It is caused by the presence of one extra chromosome in the cells of a child. According to Prof. Vajira Dissanayake, Down Syndrome or Down's Syndrome is a set of mental & physical symptoms that result from having an extra copy of chromosome 21. (CDN March 26, 2012 -HEALTH WATCH - Nipuni Wimalapala )

Human beings have 23 pairs of chromosomes. Each pair is made up of one copy of a chromosome from each parent. Down Syndrome occurs when there is a extra copy of chrosmosome 21 from either the Father or Mother.

Inside the Chromosome we get DNA, where the genes are located. Genes are there to produce proteins.

When there is an extra chromosome, the protein production increases. These proteins travel to different parts of the body. They mainly go to the nerves and the nerve cells can get damaged. These damaged nerve cells cannot be cured. As a result the child with Down syndrome may have different problems such as become a slow learner. Due to this there will be a number of physical and mental disorders. The child will do everything a normal child can do but it takes much longer.

Down's Syndrome children suffer from a variety of adverse health conditions such as thyroid dysfunctions, constipation, dry skin, congenital heart disease, hearing problems, intestinal problems such as blocked small bowel or esophagus, celiac disease, cataracts, skeletal problems and dementia similar to Alzheimer's disease.