Every cell in the human body has a nucleus, where genetic material is stored in the genes. Genes carry the codes responsible for all of our inherited traits, and are grouped into chromosomes. Typically, the nucleus of each cell contains 23 pairs of chromosomes, half of which are inherited from each parent. When there is a full or partial extra copy of chromosome 21, Down Syndrome occurs.

It is so amazing how intricate the human body is, and it blows my mind how one extra chromosome can have so many effects on a person's life. With October being Down Syndrome awareness month, it sparked an interest in my heart to dig deeper and do some research to learn more about Down Syndrome.

1. Down Syndrome is the most commonly occurring chromosomal condition.

One in every 691 babies in the United States is born with Down syndrome – about 6,000 each year.

2. People with Down Syndrome have an increased risk for certain medical conditions such as congenital heart defects, respiratory and hearing problems, Alzheimer's disease, childhood leukemia, and thyroid conditions.

Many of these conditions are now treatable, so most people with Down Syndrome lead healthy lives.

3. A few of the common physical traits of Down Syndrome are low muscle tone, small stature, an upward slant to the eyes, and a single deep crease across the center of the palm.

Every person with Down syndrome is a unique individual and may possess these characteristics to different degrees or not at all.

4. Life expectancy for people with Down Syndrome has increased dramatically in recent decades – from 25 in 1983 to 60 today.

5. All people with Down Syndrome experience cognitive delays, but the effect is usually mild to moderate and is not indicative of the many strengths and talents that each individual possesses.

6. The incidence of births of children with Down Syndrome increases with the age of the mother.

But due to higher fertility rates in younger women, 80 percent of children with Down syndrome are born to women under 35 years of age.

7. There are approximately 400,000 people living with Down Syndrome in the United States.

8. Down Syndrome is usually identified at birth or shortly thereafter.

9. Down Syndrome is usually caused by an error in cell division called nondisjunction.

It is not known why this occurs. However, it is known that the error occurs at conception and is not related to anything the mother did during pregnancy.

10. Quality educational programs, a stimulating home environment, good health care, and positive support from family, friends and the community enable people with Down Syndrome to lead fulfilling and productive lives.