Long road ahead for Down syndrome awareness

UNFORTUNATELY, WORLD Down Syndrome Day, observed on March 21, passed without a buzz in our local space. This year’s theme was ‘End The Stereotypes’. The day is designated to promote awareness about Down Syndrome and to assist those who live with the condition. World Down Syndrome Day calls for people to end the stigma around this disorder, which is ideally based on limited information or personal experience. It is estimated that Down syndrome (DS) impacts approximately one in 800 births worldwide. By increasing knowledge and acceptance, we can work towards creating a more inclusive society that values every individual, regardless of their differences. It is essential to highlight the unique strengths and abilities of people with Down syndrome and dispel myths and misconceptions that give rise to many stigmas and discrimination.

The Jamaica Down’s Syndrome Foundation (JDSF) is a nonprofit organisation established in 2007, a member of Down Syndrome International, and signatory to the 2011 successful appeal of DSI to the United Nations to recognise March 21 as World Down Syndrome Day. The JDSF is working to empowering families and caregivers of children with DS by way of education and communication. This will help children with DS achieve their highest potential. A study conducted by the JDSF shows that the incidence of Down syndrome in Jamaica is one in 868 live births. This is in keeping with international statistics. Currently, over 600 families of children with Down syndrome have registered with the Jamaica Down’s Syndrome Foundation.

Early intervention means that children with Down syndrome will also live longer. Importantly, the life expectancy for people living with DS has now increased to 60 years. Understanding Down Syndrome takes time. It is also important that more resources be made available to the care and welfare of those with Down syndrome. It is critical that governments build more special-needs educational facilities, as well as subsidise intervention programmes, in order to facilitate parents to give their children the necessary intervention. It is true that early intervention will result in the best outcome for these individuals. We must work to engender a compassionate society where parents of children with Down syndrome no longer feel ashamed to take their children out in public spaces.

It is also imperative that governments implement effective strategies to create more inclusive societies for all. By promoting awareness, societies can empower individuals with Down syndrome to succeed and contribute in their own way to their communities. Let us join forces to end the stereotypes as we promote inclusivity.