Every March 21, World Down Syndrome Day is commemorated. This day was designated in December 2011 by the United Nations General Assembly, in order to raise awareness in society about the syndrome.
Down syndrome is a genetic alteration caused by the existence of extra genetic material on chromosome 21. People with this syndrome, in general, tend to have major health problems. However, social and medical advances have managed to improve the quality of life of people with the syndrome. In the early 20th century, those affected were expected to live less than 10 years. Today, about 80% of adults who suffer from it are over 50 years of age.
Every year, the UN chooses a keyword to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day. This 2022, the word is inclusionsince as he recalls that this day is an “opportunity to share our collective understanding of Inclusion” and “create a real inclusion of everyone, for everyone, in our society”.