How many families are affected by Down’s syndrome By mental illness

How many families are affected by Down’s syndrome By mental illness?

The correct answer and explanation is :

Down syndrome and mental illnesses are significant health conditions that affect millions of families globally. Understanding their prevalence provides insight into the number of families impacted.

Down Syndrome

Down syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. Globally, it occurs in approximately 1 in 1,000 live births. In 2015, there were about 5.4 million individuals with Down syndrome worldwide. citeturn0search23 Given these figures, millions of families are directly affected by Down syndrome. The incidence of Down syndrome is influenced by maternal age; older mothers have a higher likelihood of having a child with the condition. However, due to higher birth rates among younger women, most children with Down syndrome are born to younger mothers. Advancements in medical care have improved the life expectancy of individuals with Down syndrome, leading to a growing number of families experiencing its long-term impacts.

Mental Illness

Mental illnesses encompass a wide range of mental health conditions that affect mood, thinking, and behavior. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health condition at some point in their lives, equating to around 25% of the global population. citeturn0search22 In 2021, over 22% of Americans aged 18 and older met the criteria for having a mental illness. citeturn0search18 Common mental disorders include depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. The high prevalence of mental illnesses indicates that a substantial number of families worldwide are affected, either directly or indirectly. Mental health conditions can lead to significant challenges in daily functioning, relationships, and overall quality of life. Despite their prevalence, many individuals with mental illnesses do not receive adequate treatment due to factors such as stigma, lack of resources, and insufficient mental health services.

Conclusion

Both Down syndrome and mental illnesses have a profound impact on families globally. While Down syndrome affects millions of families, mental illnesses have an even broader reach, impacting a significant portion of the global population. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive strategies, including public awareness, access to healthcare services, and support systems to improve the quality of life for affected individuals and their families.