Down syndrome is a congenitally normal human condition caused by an over-replication or fragmentation of chromosome 21. Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal disorder. This is one of the most common causes of intellectual disability. Boys born with Down syndrome are more likely to be seen than girls in the ratio of 1: 2. Mothers of 35 or older have a higher risk of having a baby with Down syndrome. But mothers of any age, any races, religions, social and economic backgrounds are capable of giving birth to children with Down syndrome. A number of medical problems such as congenital heart defect (50%), blood cancer, hypothyroidism, problems related to eye, nose, ear canal, stomach-intestinal, dental, etc. can be seen in these children. (Sources of Medical report) Down syndrome can be diagnosed at birth. Many doctors can detect a baby by its facial structure / appearance / feature and it can be confirmed by a chromosome test if there is any doubt.

In Nepal, it is estimated that 1.9 percent of the Nepali population has Down syndrome (source: 2011 Nepal census). Although the condition was identified as early as in the late 1860s, in Nepal, this has been in conversations over the past few years only and. DSAN has been constantly striving for raising public awareness.

First , the condition is still largely undiagnosed before birth. Second, due to lack of proper advice to parents in the case of a child with Down syndrome, these children are living a life of rejection and neglect due to lack of proper training, care and support. If these children are given proper education, care and support in time, they can be respected like other people.

DSAN was recognized and registered by Government of Nepal in 2006 AD under the Act of Social Welfare Council (SWC), Chief District Administration Office and Local Municipality. If we receive any national or international fund, we can use it only under the permission or the collaboration of SWC. All the functions and programs of DSAN is monitored by SWC.

Considering all the reasons and practices, Nepal Down Syndrome Association has been conducting adults training since 2006 and early intervention  since March 21, 2012 (World Down Syndrome Day).When a baby with Down Syndrome is born, they are not capable of the activities like moving their hands and feet, sensation of feel or other daily activities. Early intervention knowledge helps the children to under those activities and know their importance in daily life. As of today, more than 50  children with Down syndrome and more than 100 adults family members of children with down syndrom have benefited from DSAN programmes.

Now due to financial reasons and Covid-19, DSAN has faced difficulties to conduct programs for children regularly. In order to continue our activities, we need to secure permanent funding to cover the office rent and other recurrent miscellaneous expenses.