Introduction
Down syndrome is a genetic disorder that causes intellectual disability and physical health problems, while autism spectrum disorders are neurological disorders that typically begin in childhood. Although they’re both serious conditions, there are some similarities between them.
People with Down syndrome are more likely to have an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and also to have more severe symptoms of ASD.
Down syndrome is a genetic condition that causes intellectual disabilities, physical differences and a variety of other health problems. It occurs in about one out of every 800 babies born in the United States.
ASD is a neurological disorder that typically begins in childhood. Symptoms include difficulty communicating verbally and nonverbally, difficulty with social interactions, repetitive behaviors and an inflexible approach to life (e.g., needing things done exactly the same way every time).
There are some similarities between the two conditions, such as similar behavior traits and possible overlapping gene causes.
There are some similarities between the two conditions, such as similar behavior traits and possible overlapping gene causes. However, scientists have not yet discovered whether or not these genetic factors are also responsible for causing autism spectrum disorder.
While there is no conclusive evidence that Down syndrome causes autism spectrum disorder, it is possible that the extra chromosome 21 may contribute to some common symptoms of ASD. Scientists have not yet discovered what causes either condition, which makes it difficult to make a clear connection between them at this time.
ASD is a neurological disorder that typically begins in childhood.
ASD is a neurological disorder that typically begins in childhood, often during the first three years of life. It affects how a person communicates, relates to others and interacts within the world. ASD is 3 times more common in boys than girls, although both genders can be affected.
ASD is not caused by anything you did or didn’t do as a parent. Research suggests there are likely several causes for ASD, including genetics and environment (such as exposure to certain chemicals). While there is no cure for ASD, early diagnosis and intervention services can help children with ASD reach their full potential.
ASD includes a variety of symptoms that include difficulty communicating, difficulty interacting with others, sensory issues and repetitive behaviors.
- ASD includes a variety of symptoms that include difficulty communicating, difficulty interacting with others, sensory issues and repetitive behaviors.
- Difficulty communicating refers to a person having trouble understanding what others are saying or being able to express themselves clearly. A person with ASD may have difficulty speaking at all or use language in unusual ways. For example, they may repeat words over and over again (“echolalia”).
- Difficulty interacting with others can be manifested in many different ways, such as avoiding eye contact or not being able to make friends easily. Some people with ASD might also have trouble reading social cues from facial expressions and body language; this is called “interpersonal” communication in the autism community—the way we communicate through our relationships with other people (not necessarily just face-to-face).
- Sensory issues are common among people who have autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), including hypersensitivity to light touch or sounds (touch oversensitivity) as well as hyposensitivity (sensory underresponse) where there’s an increased level of processing required for certain stimuli like smell, taste etc., because it doesn’t register enough input on its own.”
There are many levels of severity for ASD. No matter how mild or severe, most people with the disorder are able to improve their social skills through behavioral therapy and other interventions.
There are many levels of severity for ASD. No matter how mild or severe, most people with the disorder are able to improve their social skills through behavioral therapy and other interventions.
The severity of autism depends on the individual. While some people with ASD are able to live on their own and hold jobs, others require significant assistance from family members or caregivers throughout their lives.
People who suffer from severe cases of ASD may need lifelong care; however, many children improve over time so that they can eventually function independently in society (especially if they get intensive treatment).
Down syndrome is a chromosomal condition caused by an extra copy of the 21st chromosome. Every person has two copies of each chromosome (one from mom and one from dad) but people with Down syndrome have three copies of chromosome 21 (also known as trisomy 21).
Down syndrome is a chromosomal condition caused by an extra copy of the 21st chromosome. Every person has two copies of each chromosome (one from mom and one from dad) but people with Down syndrome have three copies of chromosome 21 (also known as trisomy 21). Chromosomes are the bundles of DNA that carry our genes, so having an extra copy can cause problems like developmental delays and medical issues.
Down syndrome is one type of genetic disorder called a cytogenetic abnormality, which means there’s an error in your DNA. The most common kind is trisomy 21, which occurs when you inherit one extra copy of chromosome 21 from your parents. Trisomies are not rare—there are more than 350 different types that affect 1-in-1000 babies born in the United States each year, according to Genetics Home Reference.
About one in every 700 babies born in the United States has Down syndrome. It’s a lifelong condition that can cause developmental delays, intellectual disabilities and physical health problems.
Down syndrome is a chromosomal condition that causes intellectual disabilities and physical features like a flat face, small stature and an upward slant to the eyes. It’s caused by an extra copy of the 21st chromosome.
Every person has two copies of each chromosome—one from mom and one from dad. But people with Down syndrome have three copies of chromosome 21 (also known as trisomy 21).
People with either Down Syndrome or Autism Spectrum Disorder should get the care they need to help them succeed
If your child is on the autism spectrum, it’s important that they receive early intervention and other types of support. You can talk to your pediatrician or local health department about what services are available in your area. You can also contact the National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities (NICHCY) at 800-695-0285, which is a national information and referral center for parents of children with disabilities.
The Autism Society is another great resource for families affected by autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The organization provides resources like educational materials, advocacy opportunities for parents, awareness campaigns, networking events and more. If you don’t live near one of their offices in California or Washington D.C., there’s nothing stopping you from joining online!
In addition to these groups there are countless others popping up all over social media—and many are specifically geared towards supporting parents who have children on the spectrum as well as those who don’t yet know what they’re dealing with yet but suspect something isn’t quite right…
Conclusion
The good news is that people with Down syndrome and autism can live fulfilling lives. They just need the right support from their families, friends and communities—and to be given the opportunity to succeed in school and other activities that interest them!