About Down Syndrome

Down Syndrome is the leading clinical cause of mental retardation in the world. It is a chromosomal disorder which causes delays in physical and intellectual development. Approximately one-quarter of a million families in the United States are affected by this birth defect.

In the past, people with Down Syndrome often were placed in institutions because it was believed they never would be able to integrate into society. But today, many children with Down Syndrome grow up to be productive members of their communities, thanks to the care and support of informed parents and professionals.

Down Syndrome is caused by an error in cell division that occurs during or immediately after conception. It is not known why the error occurs, but the result is that instead of having 46 chromosomes in each cell (23 from each parent), a child with Down Syndrome has 47. Although the chances of having a baby with Down Syndrome increase significantly with age, the majority of children with Down syndrome are born to women younger than 35.

Children with Down Syndrome are more alike than different from other children. Most adults with Down syndrome are able to live productively within their communities.

The Kennedy Krieger Institute Down Syndrome Clinic

The primary beneficiary of the financial proceeds from the BWI Airport Run is the Kennedy Krieger Institute in Baltimore, MD. The Down Syndrome Clinic provides medical assistance and seminars on Down Syndrome Medical and Support Issues. The Down Syndrome Clinic Team is committed to working with families to ensure that the child reaches his/her full potential and functions as independently as possible in all aspects of family, school, and community life.