Down syndrome - history and terminology
The history of Down syndrome
It is almost certain that there have always been people with Down syndrome. Children with Down syndrome
are seen in pictures from 1505. However, Dr John Langdon Down (1828-1896) an English physician working
in Surrey was the first person to recognise Down syndrome as a 'syndrome' (a characteristic
range of symptoms or features usually occurring together). The condition therefore bears his name.
Correct terminology
"Down syndrome" (rather than "Down's syndrome") is now the accepted form throughout
the majority of English speaking countries worldwide. In some countries it is also known as "Trisomy
21" as this is the main form of genetic variation that causes Down syndrome.
People first
People with Down syndrome are people first. Please refer to "children with Down syndrome"
or "a person with Down syndrome" and not to "Down's children" or even worse
"a Downs". Labels really do affect how we think, feel and behave towards people with disabilities.
Not sufferers
Please do not describe anyone as "suffering" from Down syndrome. This is offensive to those
who live with Down syndrome. Most individuals with Down syndrome are happy, healthy and enjoying their
lives.
Having Down syndrome may impose some limits on development and life opportunities, which is a cause
of sadness for individuals with Down syndrome and their loved ones when they reflect on it. Most of
the time life goes on with the daily joys and stresses, just like everyone else.
Other key facts about Down syndrome
Click on these links to find out more key facts about:
Further information about Down syndrome
For more detailed information about Down syndrome: