By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
Cameroonians have been encouraged to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions on Down Syndrome, a condition in which a person has an extra chromosome.
The encouragement was made by Betty-Nancy Fonyuy, Manager of Timely Performance Care Center, TPCC on March 21 during the commemoration of the 2024 edition. The annual event was celebrated under the theme, “End the Stereotypes.”
Speaking to The Post, Fonyuy said Cameroonians should be inclusive in treating everyone with kindness and respect, regardless of ability.
“We, Cameroonians are encouraged to challenge stereotypes or misconceptions while celebrating Down Syndrome. Down syndrome is a genetic condition, not an intellectual disability. People with Down syndrome have a variety of abilities and talents.”
She added, “Besides learning more about Down syndrome, what it means for individuals with the condition, and how to be inclusive, she added that there is a need to spread awareness about Down syndrome by sharing information on social media or talking to friends and family.”
At TPCC, commemoration was in recognition of the day as some of the staff (special educators) went live on Facebook to educate the general public on what Down Syndrome is, its causes, symptoms, and how to manage it.
They also spoke on ways to “End The Stereotypes” in accordance with this year’s theme, while celebrating the amazing strengths of children with Down Syndrome.
Down syndrome is caused by a random error in cell division that results in the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. Chromosomes are small “packages” of genes in the body.
Some common physical features of Down syndrome include: a flattened face, especially the bridge of the nose, almond-shaped eyes that slant up, a short neck, small ears as well as a tongue that tends to stick out of the mouth.
Other symptoms include tiny white spots on the iris (colored part) of the eye, small hands and feet, a single line across the palm of the hand (palmar crease), small pinky fingers that sometimes curve toward the thumb, poor muscle tone or loose joints, and shorter in height as children and adults among others.
Every year on March 21, World Down Syndrome Day is observed across the globe. The day is designated to promote awareness about Down syndrome and to assist those who live with the condition.
The United Nations (UN) chose March 21 to represent the uniqueness of Down syndrome caused by triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome. According to the United Nations, the global prevalence of Down Syndrome is estimated to be between 1 in 1,000 and 1 in 1,100 live births.
This chromosomal defect affects between 3,000 and 5,000 infants born each year around the world. It is unknown why this sickness develops, but it has long been a part of the human experience.
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