GENESEO, N.Y. – Oct. 31, 2023 – October is National Down Syndrome Awareness Month and Livingston County is raising awareness celebrating the abilities of those with Down Syndrome.
First celebrated in the late 1980s, Down Syndrome Awareness Month seeks to educate the public and celebrate those with Down Syndrome. In addition, DSAM seeks to break down barriers and focus on promoting advocacy for people with Down Syndrome.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly one in every 772 births in the United States is born with Down Syndrome. While there is no cure, Down Syndrome research has made great strides over the last 20 years with researchers having catalogued each gene on the added chromosome to give scientists more insight on the condition.
Those living with Down Syndrome often lead full lives, attend school, participate in discussions that affect them and have meaningful relationships. They also vote and contribute to society in numerous ways. As a result of scientific research and programming designed to improve their quality of life, those with Down Syndrome have seen their life expectancy increase from 25 years of age in 1983 to 60 years as of 2021.
To learn more about Down Syndrome, research or to find helpful resources, please visit the National Down Syndrome Society’s website.
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About Livingston County:
Founded in 1821, Livingston County, N.Y., is home to more than 61,000 residents in 17 towns located across 631 square miles of the Finger Lakes region.