Down Syndrome
At Dr. Kunal Mahajan Children’s Hospital, we provide specialized services for the diagnosis, management, and support of children with Down Syndrome. Down Syndrome, also known as Trisomy 21, is a genetic condition caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. This condition leads to a range of developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, and physical characteristics that may require specialized care and support.
Diagnosis: Diagnosing Down Syndrome typically occurs either during pregnancy through prenatal screening tests or after birth through physical examination and genetic testing. Our hospital offers comprehensive diagnostic services for prenatal screening and genetic testing to identify the presence of Down Syndrome and provide families with accurate information and support to guide their decision-making process.
Management and Support: Once a diagnosis of Down Syndrome is confirmed, our multidisciplinary team collaborates to develop individualized management plans tailored to each child’s unique needs and abilities. Our services for children with Down Syndrome include:
Early Intervention: Early intervention is crucial for optimizing outcomes and promoting development in children with Down Syndrome. Our hospital offers early intervention services that may include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and developmental therapy to address specific areas of need, such as motor skills, communication, and social interaction. Early intervention services are designed to support children’s overall development and enhance their quality of life from infancy through early childhood.
Medical Management: Children with Down Syndrome may have an increased risk of certain medical conditions, including congenital heart defects, gastrointestinal issues, thyroid disorders, and vision or hearing problems. Our pediatricians and specialists provide comprehensive medical management and preventive care to monitor for potential health concerns, address medical needs, and optimize children’s overall health and well-being.
Educational Support: Children with Down Syndrome may benefit from educational accommodations and support services to optimize learning and academic success. Our hospital works closely with schools, educators, and special education professionals to develop individualized education plans (IEPs) or 504 plans that address specific learning needs, provide academic support, and promote inclusion and access to educational opportunities for children with Down Syndrome.
Behavioral and Emotional Support: Children with Down Syndrome may experience challenges related to behavior, social skills, and emotional regulation. Our team of psychologists, counselors, and behavioral therapists offers behavioral and emotional support services to help children develop coping skills, manage emotions, and navigate social interactions. We provide guidance and strategies to families to promote positive behavior management and foster healthy social-emotional development in children with Down Syndrome.
Family Support and Advocacy: We recognize the importance of providing support and resources to families of children with Down Syndrome. Our hospital offers family support services, parent education programs, and support groups to empower families, enhance coping skills, and strengthen parent-child relationships. We provide guidance on understanding Down Syndrome, accessing community resources, advocating for their child’s needs, and promoting inclusion and acceptance within the family and community.
Research and Innovation: Dr. Kunal Mahajan Children’s Hospital is committed to advancing knowledge and improving outcomes for children with Down Syndrome through research, innovation, and collaboration with national and international partners. Our hospital participates in research studies, clinical trials, and translational research initiatives aimed at developing new therapies, interventions, and support strategies to enhance the lives of individuals with Down Syndrome and their families.
