KUWAIT: Kuwait joined the global community on Friday in observing World Down Syndrome Day, a global initiative aimed at raising awareness about Down syndrome and promoting the inclusion of individuals with the condition in education, work, and society. The day encourages understanding and support for people with Down syndrome, helping them to become active members of society. Down syndrome is a genetic condition caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21. This leads to varying degrees of intellectual disabilities, developmental delays, and other health challenges. While the condition is lifelong, early intervention and comprehensive care can greatly improve the quality of life and help individuals with Down syndrome reach their full potential.

Comprehensive care from

Dr Laila Bastaki, Head of the Kuwait Medical Genetics Center, emphasized Kuwait’s commitment to providing comprehensive care for individuals with Down syndrome, starting even before birth. The center offers pre-implantation genetic diagnosis to help reduce the risks of having a child with Down syndrome. If a diagnosis is made during pregnancy, the center provides early guidance and continuous medical follow-up from infancy through adulthood. Dr Bastaki explained that the center focuses on preventing and managing common complications associated with Down syndrome, such as congenital heart defects, thyroid hormone deficiencies, celiac disease, obesity, Type 1 diabetes, hearing impairments, and mental health issues. Early detection is vital, and genetic testing during pregnancy and after birth helps in diagnosing the condition. Maternal age is a significant factor in the likelihood of having a child with Down syndrome. For women over 40, the risk increases, with 1 in 32 births involving Down syndrome. Globally, about 1 in every 800 births results in a child with the condition.

A person with Down Syndrome showcases his work as part of an exhibition organized by the Kuwait Down Syndrome Society.

Supporting families

The Kuwait Down Syndrome Society plays a crucial role in supporting individuals with Down syndrome and their families. Mariam Al-Kandari, the society’s Secretary-General, shared that the organization provides a variety of services, including educational and vocational training, life skills development, family counseling, and advocacy for social inclusion. Physical activities are an essential part of the society’s programs, as they improve cognitive abilities, physical health, and social skills. The society organizes daily sports programs, as well as arts and music activities, which offer both cognitive and physical benefits.

In addition to educational support, the society helps prepare individuals for employment through workshops that teach job-related skills, professional behavior, and self-reliance. Al-Kandari highlighted the society’s collaboration with schools and government agencies to promote inclusive education, ensuring that individuals with Down syndrome have equal access to learning opportunities.

The society is also embracing technology to enhance the skills and communication abilities of individuals with Down syndrome. Al-Kandari noted that artificial intelligence (AI) tools are being used to improve communication skills and prepare individuals for modern work environments. “Our vision is to create an environment where every person with Down syndrome has the resources and support they need to thrive,” Al-Kandari said.

Advocacy for rights

Kuwait has made significant strides in raising awareness about Down syndrome and promoting inclusion. The Kuwait Down Syndrome Society is dedicated to advocating for the rights of individuals with Down syndrome, working to eliminate discrimination and empower them to fully participate in society. Currently, there are about 4,000 people in Kuwait living with Down syndrome, and approximately 400 individuals benefit from the services offered by the Kuwait Down Syndrome Society. The society continues to work on fostering inclusion and providing long-term support for individuals with Down syndrome in all areas of life.

World Down Syndrome Day, first launched in 2007 in Sydney, Australia, is now recognized worldwide. The day serves as a platform to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion for individuals with Down syndrome. Through continuous efforts in healthcare, education, and community support, Kuwait is working to ensure that individuals with Down syndrome are empowered to lead meaningful, fulfilling lives. — KUNA