"Your donation to today's research can turn dreams into reality."

The Down Syndrome Research Group (DSRG) is a committee of the Mile High Down Syndrome Association (MHDSA). Your donation funds research that maximizes the ability of people with Down syndrome to lead independent lives.

21 REASONS FOR RESEARCH

STATISTICS

1. Trisomy 21 is the result of an individual being born with three 21st chromosomes, instead of two.
2. Trisomy 21, a genetic condition, is also known as Down syndrome.
3. Down syndrome affects 1 in 733 live births.
4. Average maternal age is 26.
5. Advances in medicine have increased the life expectancy from 25 years in 1983 to 49 years today.

SOCIAL

6. Individuals with Down syndrome have goals and dreams just like everyone else.
7. Individuals with Down syndrome want to be treated with respect.
8. Inclusive social and educational settings have resulted in a marked increase in productivity, acceptance and even I.Q., but social changes alone do not ensure opportunity and success.

MEDICAL

9. Down syndrome is the most common genetic cause of significant intellectual disability.
10. Down syndrome also causes delays in reaching developmental milestones.
11. Decreased motor coordination and low muscle tone affect speech, physical skills, and sleep.
12. Nearly 50% of all infants with Down syndrome have heart defects.
13. Individuals with Down syndrome are at greater risk for Leukemia, seizures, autism, hypothyroidism, celiac disease, sleep apnea, ear infections, vision and orthopedic problems.
14. Individuals with Down syndrome have about a 25% chance of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

RESEARCH

15. Funding for research on Down syndrome is dramatically less than other developmental disabilities.
16. Current scientific research is focused on developing drug therapies to improve learning and memory.
17. Current clinical studies on memory and behavior will improve teaching and therapeutic methods.
18. Genome mapping and genetically engineered mice provide powerful new tools for research.
19. Scientists are targeting candidate genes that are believed to cause certain attributes of Down syndrome.
20. The results of current studies may translate into new techniques that improve speech and learning.
21. Progress in studies of related diseases provide hope that an effective drug therapy is on the horizon.