09/26/2026
Facts about Down Syndrome
Down syndrome is a genetic condition caused by having an extra copy of chromosome 21. This is called trisomy 21.
Key facts:
🧬 Most people have 46 chromosomes; a person with Down syndrome typically has 47.
🧠 It can affect learning, development, and physical characteristics to varying degrees.
❤️ Some people have associated health conditions, including congenital heart defects.
👶 It usually results from a random chromosome-separation error during cell division and is not caused by something a parent did or didn't do.
🔬 There are three main forms: full trisomy 21, translocation Down syndrome, and mosaic Down syndrome.
❤️ People with Down syndrome can live fulfilling lives, and their abilities and support needs vary considerably.
Down syndrome occurs when there is an extra copy of chromosome 21. 🧬❤️