Down+Syndrome_Passner

Down's Syndrome Mekenna: Welcome! I'm here with Annie to talk about down's syndrome. Annie: My first question is what is down's syndrome? Mekenna: Down's syndrome is a genetic disorder that is inherited by having three chromosome 21, when most people only have two. Also it is considered a mental disability. Annie: Oh, is it contagious? Mekenna: No it is not contagious. Annie: Are there any treatments? Mekenna: Well the people who have down's syndrome can go to different types of therapy to help them like speech and physical therapy. Annie: What about school? Do they have to go to a special school? Mekenna: They go to regular school, just like you and me! Usually they have aides to help them throughout the day however. Annie: What are some of the symptoms? Mekenna: Some symptoms are they grow slowly, weak muscles, a short and wide neck with extra skin, and a single crease across the palms of their hands. Annie: Is there anyway to tell if a child will have down's syndrome before they are born? Mekenna: Yes, there are screening tests that they can do before the baby is born to see if it will have down's syndrome. Annie: Thanks for answering my questions Mekenna! Mekenna: You are welcome Annie! Thanks for watching!