Down Syndrome, a genetic condition affecting over 1,30,000 children in India annually, continues to pose significant challenges for families nationwide. All human cells typically contain 46 chromosomes. However, in those with Down syndrome, there is an extra copy of chromosome 21, resulting in a total of 47 chromosomes. Children born with the condition can face various health challenges, including deficits in brain development, heart disease, thyroid gland dysfunction, vision impairment, and hearing loss.
On the occasion of World Down Syndrome Day, experts from Amrita Hospital, Kochi, are highlighting the need for universal first-trimester screening to identify pregnancies affected with Down syndrome. March 21st marks this global observance, symbolized by wearing mismatched socks to represent the extra chromosome 21.
