Down Syndrome is also known as Trisomy 21. It is a genetic disorder caused by the presence of all or part of an extra 21st chromosome. Patients with Down syndrome often have mild to moderate learning disabilities.
The disorder is linked with developmental delays and characteristic facial features. Many individuals with Down syndrome also suffer from heart defects, leukemia, early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, gastro-intestinal problems, and other health issues. There are many symptoms of Down syndrome which range from mild to severe.
Over the past few decades, life expectancy for individuals with Down syndrome has dramatically increased as medical care and social inclusion have improved. A person with Down syndrome in good health can live to age 55 or beyond, on average.
There are many treatment centers that are designed to help patients with Down syndrome including:
Connecticut:
Down Syndrome Program
Division of Human Genetics
CT Children's Medical Center
65 Kane Street
West Hartford, CT
Phone: 860-523-6464
Director: Robert M. Greenstein, MD
Florida:
Down Syndrome Center
Hope Haven Clinic
4600 Beach Bouleva
Jacksonville, FL
Phone: 904-346-5100
UAP Family Clinic
University of Illinois
1640 West Roosevelt Road
Chicago, IL
Phone: 312-413-1871
Down Syndrome Center
Rady Children's Hospital
8010 Frost Street, Suite 602
San Diego, CA
Phone: 858-966-5840 (Genetics dept)
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