Understanding Down Syndrome: Causes, Genetics & Facts

Down syndrome is a genetic condition that occurs when an individual has three copies of chromosome 21 instead of the usual two. This can happen during conception when an egg or sperm cell fails to divide properly, resulting in an embryo with an extra chromosome 21.

Down syndrome is not related to any lifestyle choices or behaviors, and it is not contagious. It occurs randomly during cell division and can affect both males and females of all ethnicities and socioeconomic backgrounds.