Chromosome basics of Down syndrome

                                            By TIMOTHY ADETUNBI

Down syndrome (also called Trisomy 21) is a genetic disorder that occurs in approximately 1 of 800 live births. It is the leading cause of cognitive impairment. Down syndrome is associated with mild to moderate learning disabilities, developmental delays, characteristic facial features, and low muscle tone in early infancy. Many individuals with Down syndrome also have heart defects, leukemia, early-onset Alzheimer's disease, gastro-intestinal problems, and other health issues. The symptoms of Down syndrome range from mild to severe.

Source Magazine  gathered from Dr John Davies said the although the genetic cause of Down syndrome is known, there is currently no cure and due to advances in technology, scientists are slowly beginning to understand which genes when present in three copies are responsible for which Down syndrome characteristics, but it will take many years to fully grasp the complex interplay between the different genes.He added that much research dated is focused on understanding the causes of impaired cognition in Down syndrome and on finding potential therapies that might improve learning. Most of these studies are carried out using animal models of Down syndrome, but some human clinical trials involving potential therapies are also being conducted.

Mrs Eliberth  Oliha and Mrs Patient John both travelled to Indian through the support of Lagos State, Governor and Down Syndrome Foundation, at Surelere .This women  said  they went corrective surgery   that was done Babies Daniel  Oliha and Baby Omotade Trust John  for heart defects. They  told our reporter that the Doctors told them to do  Regular health checkups should be scheduled to screen for other conditions such as visual impairments and other medical conditions.

Mrs Oliha said her  son is going to be seven months old, came on 9^th of January.2010 while Mrs John added that her  son Omotade Trust John is one year   and 13 days old .They said before the surgery it was not easy thing to take care of their babies, but after the surgery because most things he could not do before, he finds it easy, like eating very well, playing.

Down syndrome Foundation is where they stimulate, encourage, and educate children with Down syndrome from infancy. Programs for young children with special needs are offered in many communities. Early intervention programs, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy can be very helpful with this organization.