Down Syndrome Statistics by Country (Top 8)

Down syndrome is a condition in which a person has an extra copy of chromosome 21. It can affect how their brain and body develop. People diagnosed with Down syndrome can lead healthy lives with supportive care [1].

Each year, about 5,700 babies born in the US have Down syndrome [2].

The statistics show that the number of people with Down syndrome around the world has changed over time, with a shift from the USA to European countries. This could be due to various factors, such as maternal age, prenatal screening, abortion laws, and social support. Down syndrome is not a disease, but a condition that people can live with. However, there are still challenges and gaps in the quality of life and health care for people with Down syndrome. Therefore, it is important to raise awareness and advocate for their rights and inclusion.

This study ranked countries based on the prevalence of Down syndrome, defined as the total number of existing cases per 10,000 individuals. Data was sourced from reputable organizations such as the GlobalDownSyndrome.org, the ScientiaPlena.org, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While some sources presented rates per 100,000 live births, for consistency and clarity, we standardized the data to reflect occurrences per 10,000 live births. This allows for a direct comparison of Down syndrome incidence across countries. For example, a rate of 20 per 10,000 indicates that 20 out of every 10,000 newborns are affected.

About Down Syndrome

Down Syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by having an extra chromosome. Having this condition doesn't mean you'll experience all the symptoms. But you might have one or more of them. These can include developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, and sometimes heart defects. To give you a heads up, In the USA, approximately 1 in 700 babies born has Down syndrome. So, globally, about 3,000 to 5,000 kids are born with this disorder each year. 

Is Down Syndrome Inherited? 

When a baby is on the way, they usually get 23 chromosomes from each parent. But with Down syndrome, there's an extra copy of the 21st chromosome. Research shows that having three copies of the same chromosome can cause physical and mental differences.  If you're a bit older, the chances of having a baby with Down syndrome go up. A study suggests the risk factor goes higher as a mother gets older. Experts see how often Down syndrome happens by looking at pregnancies affected. Then, they compare that with the total number of babies born alive. 

Down Syndrome Statistics by Country in 2009 

1. USA - Over 400,000 people in the USA have been diagnosed with Down syndrome according to Global Down Syndrome Foundation. The USA tops all other countries with 713 deaths from this condition alone. It is the most common chromosomal disorder. There are around 6,000 children born with Down syndrome per year which is about 1 in every 700 births.
2. Brazil - As per official data, 300,000 people have been diagnosed with this condition in Brazil. Although the deaths are much fewer in Brazil than in the USA, there were 483 deaths reported. Few studies have looked into the effects of COVID-19 on people with DS, which are more likely to require hospitalization and have more severe symptoms. They also tend to suffer from increased mortality rates.
3. Mexico - Mexico was next, with 131,199 people diagnosed with and 429 deaths. Down syndrome is one of the most common chromosomal disorders in Mexico. It has a 1/650 live birth rate in Mexico. Some of the frequent comorbidities are metabolic disorders, abnormal tissue differentiation, and abnormal internal organ developments too.
4. Germany - Fourth in line is Germany with 50,000 people diagnosed. There have been 212 deaths accounted for.
5. Venezuela - Moving on to Venezuela, there were 31,271 people diagnosed with Down syndrome.
6. South Africa - In South Africa, 55,560 people had Down syndrome. 
7. Argentina - Argentina didn't have solid population stats, but they've seen 106 deaths.
8. Canada - Canada reported 40,634 cases and 91 deaths. 

Overall, the statistics showed a rapid rise in Down syndrome cases globally back in 2009. 

Key Takeaway - In 2009, the USA led in Down syndrome cases (400,000+), while Venezuela had the lowest (31,271). Globally, cases surged, emphasizing varied prevalence and impacts.

Down Syndrome Statistics by Country in 2025

The latest research highlights these countries suffer the most from Down Syndrome. 

1. Ireland - Ireland has the highest number of babies with Down syndrome - 27.5 out of 10,000 born there. Ireland has more children born with Down syndrome than other countries due to factors like older mothers, fewer prenatal screenings, cultural and ethical values.
2. Norway - In Norway, about 24.9 out of 10,000 babies are born with Down syndrome. But, thanks to social inclusion programs, Norwegians with Down syndrome are doing well!
3. Malta - Malta ranks third globally for the highest incidence of Down syndrome. 
4. Sweden - In Sweden, 14.5 out of 10,000 births result in children with Down syndrome.
5. Serbia - Down syndrome hits about 13.8 in 10,000 people in Serbia. 
6. Moldova - Down syndrome here is around 13.4 in 10,000 births, a bit higher than the global rate.  
7. Ukraine - No accurate data is available for Ukraine. Although, WHO estimates around 12.5 in 10,000 births.
8. Croatia - Down syndrome rate at Croatia is a bit higher than usual, around 12.25 per 10,000 births.

According to a research conducted by Down Syndrome Ireland, the main reason for a higher rate of cases in the country can be attributed to the higher average maternal age. Ireland also has a lower rate of prenatal screening compared to other countries.

European countries dominate cases for congenital disorder. Each year, the European Union sees 5.2 million births. Of these about 2.5 have congenital anomalies. It is estimated that 8% of these cases are Down Syndrome.

Key Takeaway - Ireland has the most Down syndrome cases (27.5 per 10,000 births). Norway and Malta are next, supporting people well. Croatia stands at the 8th position. 

Ethnicity With Most Down Syndrome Cases

As per this report, 67% are non hispanic white. 13% are non hispanic black. 16% are hispanic, 3% are Asian or Pacific islander and 1% are Native. Non hispanic whites have more Down Syndrome cases simply because of the larger population size. 

Nationality With Least Down Syndrome Cases

According to an article published on ABC News, Iceland has the lowest rates of Down Syndrome. Extensive prenatal testing and high rates of pregnancies being terminated on detection are the main reasons for the lower rates. The country has almost eliminated Down Syndrome births using this approach.

How Can a Parent Help Their Child with Down Syndrome? 

Wondering how you can best support your child with Down syndrome? The National Library of Medicine did some digging and found some handy tips for you. 

• Early Intervention is Key - Enroll your little one in early intervention programs, like speech and physical therapy. It'll build crucial skills that pave the way for your child's development.
• Create a Supportive Environment - Foster a safe and encouraging atmosphere at home. Celebrate their achievements, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement goes a long way in boosting your child's confidence.
• Set Realistic Goals - Take it one step at a time. Set achievable goals that align with your child's abilities. This not only helps in tracking progress but also ensures a sense of accomplishment.
• Be Patient - Patience is key. Your child may take some time to reach certain milestones, and that's perfectly okay. Be present, be patient, and provide the support they need.
• Keep an Eye on Mental Health - Watch out for signs of mental health challenges. Some kids with Down syndrome may experience depression or anxiety. If you notice changes, don't hesitate to seek professional help.

What is the Life Expectancy for People with This Condition? 

The life expectancy of people with Down syndrome increased dramatically between 1960 and 2007 [2].Back in 1960, it was a mere 10 years. Yet, as per research, it is now a robust 60 years. Medical advancements, early interventions, and refined treatments have become game-changers. The shift from basic to cutting-edge medical care has significantly improved your odds. Think of it as upgrading from an old model to the latest tech. This enhanced approach, involving smarter diagnostics and personalized care, has changed outcomes. 

Common Questions About Down Syndrome

When was the first case of down syndrome?

The earliest confirmed case of Down syndrome discovered so far dates back to approximately 5,200 BCE. This case was found in June 2020 through genomic evidence from an infant buried at Poulnabrone dolmen in Ireland [3]. However, there are earlier potential cases and depictions of Down syndrome:

1. Olmec figurines from Mesoamerica, dating as far back as 1500 BCE, may represent the earliest depiction of Down syndrome [4].

2. Some researchers believe that certain historical pieces of art portray Down syndrome, including pottery from the pre-Columbian Tumaco-La Tolita culture in present-day Colombia and Ecuador, and the 16th-century painting "The Adoration of the Christ Child" [3].

3. A skeleton from a Native American cemetery in California, dating to 5200 BCE, may be an even earlier archaeological case of Down syndrome, though the evidence is less conclusive

When was the first case of down syndrome diagnosed?

English physician John Langdon Down first described Down syndrome as a distinct condition in 1862, with a more widely published report in 1866 [3].

Down syndrome affects individuals worldwide, but its prevalence varies by country due to genetic, medical, and societal factors. Advancements in healthcare and early interventions have improved life expectancy and quality of life for those with the condition. While awareness and support differ across nations, continued research and inclusive policies can help ensure better opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome. By understanding global trends, we can work toward a more supportive and informed society for those living with this genetic condition.

References

[1] 2024. Down Syndrome. CDC. https://www.cdc.gov/birth-defects/about/down-syndrome.html

[2] 2024. National population-based estimates for major birth defects, 2016-2020. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38277408/

[3] Down syndrome. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Down_syndrome

[4] 2014. Earliest case of Down syndrome discovered in medieval cemetery. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/earliest-case-of-down-syndrome-discovered-in-medieval-cemetery/

[5] Ijifm. https://www.ijifm.com/doi/pdf/10.5005/jp-journals-10016-1008#:~:text=People%20with%20Down%20syndrome%20rarely,Down%20syndrome%20fathering%20a%20child.

[6] 2006. Fertility in men with Down syndrome: a case report. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0015028206030676#:~:text=While%20females%20with%20Down%20syndrome,who%20fathered%20a%20normal%20child.

[7] 2013. Meet 7 People With Down Syndrome Who Have Gotten Their Driver’s License!. https://noahsdad.com/down-syndrome-drivers-license/

[8] 2021. Down Syndrome Dog: Why It Happens and What to Expect. https://thevets.com/blog/down-syndrome-dog/#:~:text=Animals%20are%20unable%20to%20get,disorder%20comparable%20to%20Down's%20syndrome.

2023. Data and Statistics on Down Syndrome. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/birthdefects/downsyndrome/data.html

2023. Down Syndrome. United Nations. https://www.un.org/en/observances/down-syndrome-day#:~:text=Background,born%20with%20this%20chromosome%20disorder

2023. Facts about Down Syndrome. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/birthdefects/downsyndrome.html#:~:text=The%20extra%20chromosome%2021%20leads,different%20factors%20play%20a%20role. 

2023. About Down Syndrome. Global Down Syndrome Foundation. https://www.globaldownsyndrome.org/about-down-syndrome/

2012. Prevalence of People with Down Syndrome in Brazil. SCIENTIA PLENA. https://www.scientiaplena.org.br/sp/article/view/897/459

2023. 8 Countries with Highest Rate of Down Syndrome. Insider Monkey. https://www.insidermonkey.com/blog/8-countries-with-highest-rate-of-down-syndrome-1170362/8/

2017. Parenting children with Down syndrome: Societal influences. National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5697561/

2023. Data and Statistics on Down Syndrome. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/birthdefects/downsyndrome/data.html

2023. Facts and FAQ About Down Syndrome. Global Down Syndrome Foundation. https://www.globaldownsyndrome.org/about-down-syndrome/facts-about-down-syndrome/