Article by Luke Lekishon, research by Abdi Mohammed Ali ,Edited by Nadia Muthoni
When you hear the term Down syndrome, what comes to mind? Most of us imagine that it is a complex condition which only experts can understand, but this is not the case. Down syndrome is a genetic condition that arises when an individual has an extra copy of chromosome 21 (Trisomy 21). Normally, an individual has 46 chromosomes. Each parent donates 23. When an individual inherits an extra chromosome, making a total of 47, this is what causes down syndrome.
Down syndrome results in intellectual disability, developmental delays, and physical traits like a flattened facial profile and poor muscle tone. While characteristics vary in intensity from person to person, the following are the specific indicators of Down syndrome: flattened face and nose, small ears/mouth, upward-slanting eyes, and a tongue that tends to stick out; short neck, small head, short stature, and poor muscle tone (hypotonia); a single deep crease across the palm, short fingers, and a space between the first and second toes. Since these symptoms are observable, Down syndrome can be detected at birth.
There are different types of Down syndrome, these are: Trisomy 21, the most common type (occurring in 95% of cases), where every cell has three copies of chromosome 21. There is also Translocation, which occurs when an extra part or whole extra chromosome 21 is present, but it is attached or "translocated" to a different chromosome rather than being separate. Finally, we have Mosaicism, which is the rarest type, where only some cells have an extra chromosome 21, while others have the typical two.
Down syndrome affects both cognitive and physical development. Children typically reach milestones like sitting, walking, and talking later than their peers. Most individuals experience mild to moderate cognitive impairment, which can lead to learning difficulties and short attention spans. Furthermore, individuals with Down syndrome are usually at higher risk of congenital heart defects, respiratory infections, thyroid issues, celiac disease, and vision or hearing problems.
The condition results from a random error in cell division called nondisjunction, producing an extra chromosome 21. Maternal age is the primary known risk factor; the probability of having a child with Down syndrome increases after age 35, though most children with the condition are born to women under 35 because of higher overall birth rates in that group.
While there is no cure, various interventions improve the quality of life. Regular check-ups for heart, thyroid, and sensory issues are essential. Physical, occupational, and speech therapies are crucial for development. All these therapies are offered at the Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) at reasonable fees along with free educational assessment. Due to their cognitive disability, learners with Down syndrome should be taught at their own pace; information should be given to them bit by bit. Using visual aids is recommended. That said, it is possible for children with Down syndrome to be integrated into classrooms with typical children. With proper support, many individuals with Down syndrome live, work, and thrive within their communities, living into their 60s and beyond.
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