Down SyndromeDown syndrome is one of the most common chromosomal abnormalities in humans, affecting people of all ages, races, and economic levels. It is a chromosomal abnormality in cellular development that causes a person to be born with forty-seven chromosomes instead of the normal forty-six chromosomes. People with Down syndrome may have mild to severe learning disabilities and physical symptoms, including a small skull, extra folds of skin under the eyes, and a protruding tongue. About one in a thousand children are born, making it the most common genetic disorder. . Down syndrome affects more than 350,000 people in the United States alone. Down syndrome has plagued humanity since the dawn of time. For centuries, people with Down syndrome have been depicted in art, literature and science as outcasts and rejects of society. However, it was not until the late 19th century that John Langdon Down, an English physician, published an accurate description of a person with Down syndrome. It was this publication in 1866 that earned Down recognition as the “father” of the syndrome. Although others had previously recognized the characteristics of the syndrome, it was Down who described the disease as a distinct and distinct entity. Throughout the 20th century, advances in medicine and science allowed researchers to study the characteristics of people with Down syndrome. In 1959, French doctor Jérôme Lejeune identified Down syndrome as a chromosomal abnormality. Instead of the usual 46 chromosomes present in each cell, Lejeune observed 47 in the cells of individuals with Down syndrome. It was later determined that a partial or complete additional 21st chrome...... middle of paper ......ities of the community and the challenge of reaching its full potential. Every day, people with Down syndrome venture out into the community: to school, to work, and to recreational activities. Some live with family, others with friends and still others independently. They form ongoing relationships and some may marry. Women with Down syndrome are fertile and can have children. The opportunities available to people with Down syndrome today have never been greater. However, it is only through the collective efforts of parents, professionals and concerned citizens that acceptance becomes widespread. Down syndrome research is making great strides in identifying the genes on chromosome 21 that cause the characteristics of Down syndrome. Scientists are now confident that it will be possible to improve, correct or prevent many problems associated with Down syndrome in the future..