ABOUT US
Formed in 1984, the Zimbabwe Down Syndrome Association (ZDSA) is a non-profit organisation advocating for the rights to change restrictive legislations and policies that are not disability friendly for persons with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities. We are affiliated to the following:
ZDSA partners with relevant local, regional and international organisations with similar objectives.
ZDSA aims to:
- Down Syndrome International (DSI)
- Africa Disability Alliance (ADA)
- Federation of Organisations of People with Disabilities (FODPZ)
ZDSA partners with relevant local, regional and international organisations with similar objectives.
ZDSA aims to:
- Promote the full inclusion and full independence of persons with Down syndrome and their families.
- Mobilize and lobby parents of children and persons with Down syndrome.
- Raise awareness of rights of persons with Down syndrome.
What is Down Syndrome?
It is believed that persons with Down syndrome have always existed. However, it was not until 1866 that the English Doctor John Langdon Down published a description of the condition which subsequently took his name.
Down syndrome occurs when an individual has a full or partial extra copy of chromosome 21. This additional genetic material alters the course of development and causes the characteristics associated with Down syndrome. Nothing done before or after pregnancy can cause this condition. It can happen to anyone.
Down Syndrome facts
- There are three types of Down syndrome: trisomy 21 (nondisjunction) accounts for 95% of cases, translocation accounts for about 4%, and mosaicism accounts for about 1%
- Down syndrome occurs in people of all races , religion, economic levels and in all countries around the world.
- The incidence of births of children with Down syndrome increases with the age of the mother. But due to higher fertility rates in younger women, 80% of children with Down syndrome are born to women under 35 years of age
- People with Down syndrome have an increased risk for certain medical conditions such as congenital heart defects, respiratory and hearing problems, Alzheimer’s disease, childhood leukaemia and thyroid conditions. Many of these conditions are now treatable, so most people with Down syndrome lead healthy lives
- A few of the common physical traits of Down syndrome are: low muscle tone, small stature, an upward slant to the eyes, and a single deep crease across the centre of the palm. Every person with Down syndrome is a unique individual and may possess these characteristics to different degrees or not at all
- Life expectancy for people with Down syndrome has increased dramatically in recent decades – from 25 in 1983 to 60 today
- People with Down syndrome can attend school, work, participate in decisions that affect them, have meaningful relationships and contribute to society in many wonderful ways
- All people with Down syndrome experience cognitive delays, but the effect is usually mild to moderate and is not indicative of the many strengths and talents that each individual possesses
- Quality educational programs, a stimulating home environment, good health care and positive support from family, friends and the community enable people with Down syndrome to lead fulfilling and productive live.
