WDSD: Advocating for increased awareness and research on Down syndrome

World Down Syndrome Day, observed annually on March 21 and recognized by the UN since 2012, raises awareness to promote understanding and support for individuals with Down syndrome.

Marking this occasion and representing over 420 members of Trisomy 21 Research Society (T21RS) — the only global society dedicated to Down syndrome research — our executive board advocated for our mission with a correspondence in today’s Lancet Neurology.

Together, T21RS members advocate for better recognition, healthcare, and research on co-occurring conditions of people with Down syndrome. Research is essential to improving quality of life, addressing comorbidities, and developing tailored interventions, yet individuals with Down syndrome remain excluded from clinical trials for Alzheimer’s immunotherapies. Studying Down syndrome enhances knowledge, informs policies, and advances ageing care, benefiting broader populations. Despite its critical role, Down syndrome research remains insufficient. T21RS fosters global collaboration through standardized protocols, researcher training, public communication, and stronger connections among scientists, industry, and society. Thank you all for supporting people with Down syndrome through our mission in research!!

Link to statement in the Lancet Neurology [HERE].