About Down syndrome

Down syndrome (or Trisomy 21) is a naturally occurring chromosomal arrangement that has always been a part of the human condition, being universally present across racial, gender or socioeconomic lines in approximately 1 in 800 live births, although there is considerable variation worldwide. Down syndrome usually causes varying degrees of intellectual and physical disability and associated medical issues.

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In their own words

‘Chromosomes R Us’, is a short film by actors with Down syndrome explaining how Trisomy 21 occurs.

Made by Shabang Inclusive Learning in collaboration with Mediapreview, Huddersfield, UK, this film was made possible by generous funding from BBC Children in Need.

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The best people to answer many questions about Down syndrome are people with Down syndrome.

The Canadian Down Syndrome Society found the most asked questions on Google and asked 10 Canadians with Down syndrome to give their answers.

Check out the Down Syndrome Answers video project:

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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.

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Each year the voice of people with Down syndrome, and those who live and work with them, grows louder.

Join in with us to create a single global voice for advocating for the rights, inclusion and well being of people with Down syndrome on 21 March.