Learn more by printing the DSG Facts Brochure!

There are a lot of misconcpetions regarding Down syndrome. DSG strives to provide accurate and up to date information to help debunk outdated myths and stereotypes that exist.

Did you know?
People with Down syndrome...
• Are living in their communities with some support
• Are often fully included in school with their typical peers
• Are going to college more frequently 
• Are employed as artists, actors, child care workers
• Enjoy healthy relationships and some get married

Myth: Down syndrome is a rare genetic disorder.
Truth: Down syndrome is the most commonly occurring genetic condition. One in every 691 live births is a child with Down syndrome.

Myth: Having a child with Down syndrome will be a burden on a family.
Truth: People with Down syndrome have many gifts and talents. They bring joy to their family’s lives and enhance the world. There are many families currently seeking to adopt children with Down syndrome.

Myth: All individuals with Down syndrome will have severe developmental or intellectual delays.
Truth: Most people with Down syndrome have cognitive delays that are mild to moderate. IQ is not an adequate measure of the functional status of people with Down syndrome. People with Down syndrome have great potential when given the opportunity to succeed.

Myth: Individuals born with Down syndrome do not experience full or productive lives.
Truth: Individuals with Down syndrome live at home with their families, in group homes or in homes of their own. They are integrated into the regular education system and are active participants in the vocational, social, religious and recreational activities of the community. Many individuals will go to college, work and lead meaningful lives.