Blue- yellow Ribbon - Down Syndrome

The genetic disorder is named after Dr. John Langdon Down, who first described the disease in 1866. It is the most common autosomal chromosomal abnormality with a frequency of 1 in 800 births. Down’s syndrome is caused due to the presence of an extra 21st chromosome. It was not until 1959 that this cause was established. Patients with Down syndrome have several abnormalities such a mental retardation, gastrointestinal problems, increased susceptibility to respiratory infections and childhood cancer, more specifically leukemia. In addition, congenital heart defects may also be seen. Advanced maternal age is considered to be a significant risk factor for Down syndrome.