What causes Down syndrome?

Just as some people have blue eyes and some people have brown hair, Down syndrome is one aspect of human diversity. There is no way of knowing why people have the genetic variations they have, and Down syndrome is yet another one of those genetic variations.

There is some association between parental age and the birth of babies with Down syndrome, but more young parents have children with Down syndrome than older parents, because more young people are having children.

There is definitely no link between lifestyle factors and Down syndrome or any other commonly-cited myths – simply, Down syndrome happens because of a blip in the cell division process.

What should you say to a family that has a newborn with Down syndrome?

  1. “Congratulations!”
  2. “Mazel tov!”
  3. “What wonderful news!”
  4. “Fantastic!”
  5. “Felicitations!”

The birth of any baby is good news, and babies with Down syndrome will bring a lot of happiness and pride to their families. Their birth is a reason for celebration!