Socks not to match. World Down Syndrome Day

The choice of date is not accidental. It refers to the presence of an extra third chromosome in the 21st pair of chromosomes in people with Down syndrome. The essence of this holiday is to eliminate barriers, overcome stereotypes, show solidarity, acceptance and understanding to those affected by this genetic abnormality. Around the world, the symbol of the celebration is the colorful mismatched socks. This is a metaphor for the genotypic and social mismatch that trisomy 21 causes. It is also a recognizable sign of support and approval for patients, their families and caregivers. The aim of the actions organized around the world on this day is to show societies that small gestures, empathy, and displays of positive feelings can make a big difference in the social lives of patients. This holiday is meant to be joyful, colorful and carry the message that life with Down's can be colorful and rewarding.

Today, a great deal is known about Down syndrome, but the causes and specific physical factors contributing to the increased risk of the disease are still unknown. Trisomy is a syndrome of defects, resulting from a numerical chromosomal aberration, which causes health consequences of varying severity. Excess genetic material is formed at the stage of intensive cell divisions just after fertilization Among the most common and well-known trisomies is Down syndrome, or trisomy 21. Its characteristics include intellectual disability of varying degrees of severity, changes in appearance, as well as changes in the structure and function of the entire body. Down syndrome is one of the best-studied genetic diseases with a relatively high incidence. Diagnosis ranges from 1:800 to 1:1,000 live-born children.

Down syndrome is incurable but today, thanks to medical advances, the life expectancy of patients has increased to about 50-60 years. Much depends on proper medical care and rehabilitation. With greater public awareness and medical knowledge of Down syndrome, affected individuals can lead active lives. Schools, inclusive facilities and modern adaptive teaching programs help children develop with their peers, which is of great importance for their skills and ability to live independently. In turn, healthy children and adults have a chance to become accustomed to otherness, learn tolerance, and thus improve the lives of people with disabilities.