Overview:
World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD), which has been backed by the United Nations since December 2011, is annually observed on March 21st to raise awareness about Down syndrome and support those people with the syndrome and their families.
On this day, people with Down syndrome and those who live and work with them throughout the world organize and participate in activities and events to raise public awareness and create a single global voice advocating for the rights, inclusion and well-being of people with Down syndrome.
Objectives:
- Raise awareness about Down syndrome and its causes.
- Raise awareness about the role of people with Down syndrome in the communities.
- Encourage people with Down syndrome to study or work.
Facts:
- Down syndrome remains the most common chromosomal disorder, each year about 6,000 babies born with Down syndrome, or about 1 in every 700 babies.
- Between 1979 and 2003, the number of babies born with Down syndrome increased by about 30%.
- Older mothers are more likely to have a baby affected by Down syndrome than younger mothers. In other words, the prevalence of Down syndrome increases as the mother's age increases.
Official Date:
Globally: March 21st, 2022
Locally: Shaban 18th,1443H
Theme:
“Inclusion Means”
References:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention