Down’s syndrome is probably one of the most common and visible chromosomal disorders in existence. This visibility has been brought forth through frequent media coverage; the distinctive facial characteristics caused by this disability and increased efforts to include Down’s syndrome patients into normal society. While all of these combined factors may make the disability seem less severe than it actually is, many Down’s syndrome patients and their families rely on Canadian Disability Benefits to survive.

What is Downs Syndrome?

Down’s syndrome is also known formally as ‘trisomy 21’ in reference to the triple copy of chromosome 21 which causes the syndrome. This chromosome abnormality is characterized by significant cognitive and physical symptoms including delayed physical growth and an average IQ of approximately 50 as compared to 100 in healthy young adults.

Depending on the severity of the intellectual disabilities, some Down’s syndrome patients may be educated in regular classes and graduate from high school, while others may require special education. Additionally, with increased understanding and treatment of the syndrome, opportunities for post-secondary education continue to increase. Canadian Disability Benefits can make sure you can afford to give your child the treatment they need in order to have the best possible future.

Symptoms of Downs Syndrome

Down’s syndrome universally affects both the physical and mental lives of those affected by the chromosomal abnormality. While the severity of these disabilities may vary, they will generally qualify for up to $35,000 in benefits under the Canadian Disability Tax Credit program. On average, the IQ of Down’s syndrome patients is approximately half that of a healthy young adult but as this is an average, each individual patient may actually fall well above or below this number.

While the mental symptoms of Down’s syndrome may be the most devastating, the physical manifestations are arguably the most obvious. Everyone you speak with seems to be familiar with the characteristic facial features found among Down’s syndrome patients, but fewer seem to realize that there are other physical problems which regularly come along with the syndrome. These include stunted growth, significantly increased incidence of congenital heart defects, thyroid disorders, gastrointestinal problems and infertility.