HMC’s Child Development Centre raises awareness on Down syndrome

The Child Development Centre in Rumailah Complex is observing World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) to shine a spotlight on the importance of creating awareness about the condition and showing support for the inclusion of individuals affected by the syndrome.“This year, the global theme for WDSD is ‘#InclusionMeans’ and we as campaigners for Down syndrome are asking members of the community about what inclusion of people with Down syndrome means to them. We believe people around the world can be empowered to advocate for full inclusion in society for people with Down syndrome and for everyone,” Dr Lobna Hassan Mohd Osman Dekair, senior paediatric consultant, Child Development section, Rumailah Hospital stressed. According to her, the United Nations in the general principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities calls for full and effective participation and inclusion of persons with disabilities, including those with Down syndrome, in society.“However, today’s reality does not encourage this UN’s provision for full and effective participation and inclusion of persons with disabilities in society, because of a lack of awareness and agreed understanding about what inclusion is and what inclusive systems look like in practice. Many persons with disabilities including those living with Down syndrome are yet to be fully integrated into the society. Therefore, on the occasion of World Down Syndrome Day, we are creating awareness and advocating inclusion of persons with the condition,” she said.“At HMC’s Child Development Centre, we recognise that people with Down syndrome have great potential and that they can lead normal healthy lives and enjoy a higher life expectancy. Although, most are more likely to have certain medical conditions such as congenital heart defects, hearing and vision problems, and gastrointestinal issues, many of these conditions are now treatable and they can achieve optimal quality of life through parental care and support, medical guidance, therapeutic interventions and community-based support systems such as inclusive health and education at all levels,” Dr Dekair added. World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD), usually observed every March 21, is a global awareness day which has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012. The date for WDSD being the 21st day of the 3rd month, was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome.