Get ready to witness an explosion of color in the streets and offices of Antigua and Barbuda on March 21st, as the world celebrates World Down Syndrome Day!

This day is dedicated to raising awareness about Down Syndrome, a condition in which a person has an extra chromosome, and to show solidarity with the individuals and families affected by it.

The Paediatric Unit at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre is all set to showcase their crazy-colored socks, a fun tradition they follow every year, to mark this important day. Since 2006, World Down Syndrome Day has been observed on March 21st every year across the globe.

Did you know that one in every 800 babies born worldwide has Down Syndrome? In 2022, Antigua and Barbuda had one baby born with the condition out of 931 live births.

While the numbers may be limited, medical officials are calling for continued improvement of services to assist those affected and their families.

There is a pressing need for additional special education facilities and more financially friendly treatment centers.

At present, there are only three special needs institutions on the island, and 16 children with Down Syndrome are enrolled in either public or private schools. Families spend thousands of dollars for treatment services like sight and speech classes, which is a huge financial burden.

This year’s theme is ‘End the Stereotypes’, which seeks to break down the preconceived notions and prejudices that people have about individuals with Down Syndrome and intellectual disabilities.

Stereotypes can stop them from being treated like other people, and they are often underestimated and excluded.

So let’s join hands and take a pledge to break down these stereotypes and treat everyone with the respect and dignity they deserve!