​​City to host conference on Down Syndrome

Dr. Surekha Ramachandran, Founder, DSFI

29/5/2018

PUNE: City is hosting first of its kind conference on Down ​syndrome, one of the most common genetic birth disorders which is rarely spoken about. Down Syndrome Federation of India (DSFI) is organising its second India International Down Syndrome Conference (IIDSC) in Pune between May 31 and June 2, 2018 to create awareness about Down Syndrome in India.

While announcing this, Dr. Surekha Ramachandran, Founder, DSFI, stressed upon the fact that ‘Down ​syndrome’ is not a disease but a condition that can be treated with right intervention. She also highlighted that almost 30000 children with Down syndrome are born in our country every year. Other experts like Tehnaz Ragi, co-ordinator IIDSC activity room, Shweta Ranka, a leading architect and parent were present at the conference to share the views on Down syndrome.

​Mentioning the factors ​of ​Down Syndrome, Ramachandran stated that, “While interacting with parents during DSFI initiatives, we came to realise that the day-to-day stress affects during conception. Also, today we are exposed to various radiations in the form of computers, mobile phones etc. So, taking these points into consideration it is important to conduct an extensive research to figure out if ​genetic disorders like​ Down syndrome can occur in children whose parents ​are in specific occupation like​ ​in IT field.”

DSFI is an organization that offers support to individuals with Down syndrome and their families through various Down syndrome Institutions across India.

This event intends to bring together all stakeholders like educators, health care professionals in the field of Down syndrome to bring about a positive change in the lives of persons with Down syndrome and request the Government to bring in laws to protect their interests in our country. A total of 30 families from Pune will be participating at the conference.

Down Syndrome is associated with mild to moderate learning disabilities, developmental delays, characteristic facial features, and low muscle tone in early infancy. Many individuals with Down syndrome have various health issues. Through a series of screenings and tests, Down Syndrome can be detected before and after a baby is born.

Today medical sciences has developed so much that it is possible to find out about genetic aberrations in the womb itself. Yet there are almost 30000 children with Down syndrome born in our country every year. And this number corresponds to the international average of 1 in every 800 live births.

Eminent doctors from Pune will be sharing their expertise and experiences with parents at the IIDSC 2018 event. This includes the like of Dr.Vaman Khadilkar, Dr. Rajiv Sharangpani, Dr. Archana Kadam, Dr. Rajan Joshi, Dr. Koumudi Godbole and Dr. Usha Pratap amongst others. A panel discussion to address medical issues helping parents to understand their wards better will also be conducted during the event. There will be various fun activities like painting, brain gym, dancing and games for all the participants, especially children.