Down Syndrome Awareness Month

Down Syndrome Awareness Month timeline

1975

Down syndrome loses the apostrophe 's'

The United States National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends replacing the possessive form "Down's syndrome" with "Down syndrome."

The 1950s

Lejeune pinpoints extra chromosome

French pediatrician and geneticist Jerome Lejeune works toward his discovery ultimately proving that Down syndrome results from an extra chromosome.

1862

Down classifies disease names for him

English physician John Langdon Down classifies the genetic disorder now known as Down syndrome.

Down Syndrome Awareness Month FAQs

When is Down Syndrome Awareness Month?

Down Syndrome Awareness Month runs throughout October 2026, from Thursday, October 1, to Saturday, October 31. This month-long observance provides ample opportunity for education and advocacy.

How many people live with Down syndrome?

According to the CDC, approximately 6,000 babies are born with Down syndrome in the United States each year, meaning about 1 in every 700 babies. Millions worldwide live with the condition.

What is the significance of the blue and yellow ribbon for Down syndrome?

The blue and yellow ribbon is a widely recognized symbol for Down syndrome awareness. These colors represent hope, vitality, and the unique spirit of individuals with Down syndrome, fostering a sense of community and support.

Is Down syndrome inherited?

In most cases, Down syndrome is not inherited. It’s usually caused by a random error in cell division during the formation of the egg or sperm, or during early embryonic development. This is known as trisomy 21.

How to Observe Down Syndrome Awareness Month

Join a Buddy Walk

According to the National Down Syndrome Society, the Buddy Walk "has grown to be the world’s largest and most recognizable Down syndrome awareness program with over 250 walks taking place in 50 states and select international countries."

Volunteer

There are plenty of things you can do during Down Syndrome Awareness Month, but volunteering with one of the many Down syndrome advocacy groups is one of the best and most effective.

Spread the word

The Down Syndrome Information Alliance suggests celebrating Down Syndrome Awareness Month by carrying out 31 random acts of kindness — one for each day in October.

5 Interesting Facts About Down Syndrome

Society has changed for the better

In ancient times, infants with Down syndrome were often killed or abandoned. And even in modern times, many people with Down syndrome were institutionalized.

Pregnancy testing can pinpoint Down syndrome

According to the Global Down Syndrome Foundation, "Down syndrome has nothing to do with race, nationality, socioeconomic status, religion, or anything the mother or father did during pregnancy." Mothers can learn through diagnostics tests during pregnancy whether or not their baby has Down syndrome.

There are three types

Of the three types of Down syndrome — trisomy 21 (nondisjunction) is most prevalent. Translocation and mosaicism account for about 5 percent of cases combined.

People with Down can live full, rich lives

An emphasis on education, a loving and stimulating home environment, and quality health care enable people with Down syndrome to have full and productive lives.

Life expectancy is increasing

As reported by the Global Down Syndrome Foundation, "As recently as 1983, the average lifespan of a person with Down syndrome was 25 years. The dramatic increase is largely due to the end of the inhumane practice of institutionalizing people with Down syndrome."

Why Down Syndrome Awareness Month is Important

It spreads awareness

Down Syndrome Awareness Month teaches people about this topic. As UpWithDowns.org reminds us, we should "celebrate people with Down syndrome and make people aware of (their) abilities and accomplishments."

It's inspirational

Down Syndrome Awareness Month helps us celebrate abilities, rather than disabilities, as various Down Syndrome Associations in the United States teach.