'World Down Syndrome Day-2017' observed

Like other parts of the globe, 'World Down Syndrome Day-2017' was marked here on Tuesday with a renewed pledge to raise awareness about the disease so that by extending special attention to the children suffering from Down syndrome, they may be made useful members of the society. To mark the day, different organisations arranged special functions in which, speakers highlighted different aspects to meet the needs of children suffering from Down syndrome. Quoting some figures, they said,
"Down syndrome is reported one in every 800 live births world-wide. Every normal kid has 46 chromosomes while children with Down syndrome have 47. This disease can be now diagnosed during pregnancy at 6 weeks or later and this facility is also available in Pakistan." Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif in his special message on the day, said that the persons especially children suffering from Down syndrome requires special attention. "Awareness is required regarding mental illness so that preventive measures should be taken. Special Children are no less than normal ones in terms of talent and capability," he said, adding: "The abilities of special children can be utilised and streamlined after providing them with best facilities."
He further stated that the lack of knowledge regarding the mental illness and the delay in the treatment results in health rampage. It is the state responsibility to look after the special needs and education of these children. Shahbaz said the Punjab government has worked vigorously to provide the facilities in the education departments for special children. He said the government has also fixed a quota for the people with special needs in employment sector. "We should continue our efforts for providing best facilities for special children suffering from Down syndrome disease," he said.