The United Nations (UN)’s World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) is annually observed across the globe on 21 March to raise public awareness of Down syndrome and advocate for the rights, inclusion, and well-being of people with Down syndrome.
- 21 March 2024 marks the observance of the 13th WDSD.
- The 2024 theme of WDSD is “End The Stereotypes”.
Ribbon: The Blue & Yellow Awareness Ribbon represents Down Syndrome.
Significance:
i.Stereotypes hinder inclusion, equal treatment, and respect for individuals with Down syndrome. Stereotypes can lead to underestimation, exclusion, and even abuse.
ii.The 2024 observance advocated for ending the stereotypes hindering individuals with Down Syndrome.
Lots Of Socks campaign:
The Lots of Socks campaign is a WDSD awareness campaign that encourages people to wear socks that are colorful or mismatched.
Background:
i.The global awareness campaign was first observed in 2006, when the Down Syndrome Association Singapore launched and hosted the WDSD website from 2006-2010, on behalf of DSi (Down Syndrome International).
ii.On 19 December 2011, the UN General Assembly (UNGA) adopted the resolution A/RES/66/149 and proclaimed the 21 March of every year as WDSD.
iii.The 1st ever UN-recognised WDSD was observed on 21 March 2012.
Note: DSi coordinates the WDSD website and associated activities in collaboration with the National Down Syndrome Society and the Down’s Syndrome Association.
Why March 21?
The 21st day of March (the 3rd month of the year) was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome.
About Down syndrome:
i.Down syndrome (or Trisomy 21) is a condition in which a person has an extra partial or whole copy of chromosome 21.
- Chromosomes are “packages” of genes in the body. They determine how a baby’s body forms and functions as it grows.
ii.It occurs naturally and is a part of the human condition. It globally causes varying degrees of intellectual and physical disability and associated medical issues.
Key Facts:
i.The estimated incidence of Down syndrome is between 1 in 1,000 to 1 in 1,100 live births worldwide.
ii.Approximately 3,000 to 5,000 children are born annually with Down syndrome.
- Around 1 in every 800 babies will be born with Down syndrome.
2024 Events:
The Down Syndrome International (DSi) network hosted the 13th World Down Syndrome Day Conference (WDSDC) from 21-22 March 2024 at the UN headquarters in New York, the United States of America (USA).
