Myths vs Facts
MOST COMMON MYTHS:
Myth
Persons with Down syndrome are always happy.
Fact
Persons with Down syndrome, like anyone else, experience a range of emotions. Happiness is just one aspect of their emotional spectrum.
Myth
Down syndrome is a rare condition.
Fact
Down syndrome is one of the most common chromosomal conditions, occurring in about 1 in 700 live births
Myth
Individuals with Down syndrome cannot lead fulfilling lives.
Fact
With proper support, education, and opportunities, individuals with Down syndrome can lead fulfilling and meaningful lives. In developed countries many go on to graduate from high school, find employment, and participate in their communities. This is a dream we hope to realize in developing countries.
Myth
Persons with Down syndrome are always severely intellectually disabled.
Fact
Intellectual abilities vary widely among individuals with Down syndrome. Most Persons with Down syndrome fall within the mild to moderate range of intellectual disability.
Myth
Down syndrome is hereditary
Fact
In most cases, Down syndrome is not inherited. It is caused by a random error in cell division during the formation of the egg, sperm, or embryo.
Myth
Individuals with Down syndrome cannot be included in regular classrooms.
Fact
Inclusive education is beneficial for individuals with Down syndrome, promoting social and academic development. Many thrive in mainstream educational settings with appropriate support.
Myth
Persons with Down syndrome all look alike.
Fact
While there may be some physical features common in individuals with Down syndrome, they exhibit a wide range of appearances, just like any other group of people and they look more like their family members than each other.
Myth
Life expectancy for individuals with Down syndrome is very short.
Fact
Thanks to advances in medical care and societal inclusion, the life expectancy of individuals with Down syndrome has significantly increased. Many live into their 60s and beyond.
Myth
Only older mothers have children with Down syndrome.
Fact
While the chance of having a child with Down syndrome increases with maternal age, the majority of children with Down syndrome are born to mothers under the age of 35.
It's essential to dispel myths and promote accurate information to foster understanding and acceptance of individuals with Down syndrome.