For World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) on 21st March 2014, Down Syndrome International will be focusing on:
“Health and Wellbeing – Access and Equality for All”
The date is chosen to represent the 3 copies of chromosome 21 that individuals with the condition have. It’s a day of celebration, education, of support and sharing information, as well as fundraising for the charities we hold dear.
All people with Down syndrome have the right to access healthcare when required on an equal basis with others without discrimination and with proper assessment of the specific health needs of the individual. We will be highlighting that:
- Having Down syndrome does not make a person unhealthy.
- Down syndrome is a genetic condition, not an illness.
- People with Down syndrome may have health issues throughout their lives, just like everyone else and they should have
- access to healthcare on an equal basis with others.
- There are specific known health issues which may affect people with Down syndrome, for which accurate, evidence based information is available.
- Health professionals should be aware of these specific issues when treating a person with Down syndrome.
- Health professionals should not discriminate against people with Down syndrome by: refusing to treat them, blaming health issues on Down syndrome in general, or considering only specific known health issues which may affect people with Down syndrome.
Down Syndrome International’s WDSD Global Video Event and WDSD Conference will both explore this important area of focus.
To find out more about WDSD World Events visit the dedicated WDSD website.
To show your support for World Down Syndrome everyone is encouraged to wear “Lots of Socks“.