Down’s syndrome congress a success

Experts from around the globe gathered in Dublin last week for the 10th World Down’s Syndrome Congress.
Consultant paediatrician and endocrinologist at the National Children’s Hospital Tallaght, Professor Hilary Hoey, said: “This is a huge achievement for Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI), who have worked extremely hard. They have done tremendous work and it is a great achievement for Ireland to have won the bid to host the conference.”

More than 2,000 delegates — including health professionals as well as people with Down’s syndrome and their families — attended the conference, which was held in the Helix at Dublin City University from August 19-22.
One of the highlights was the 1st International Synod of People with Down Syndrome. It gave teenagers and adults with the condition the opportunity to voice their opinions on topics such as living in the community and employment opportunities.
“People with Down’s syndrome want to talk. They are vocal and want to express their opinions. They want to share information and develop their own pathways. They are demanding it,” said Prof Hoey.
With good health and wellbeing, people with Down’s syndrome could live long, happy, fulfilled lives and greatly contribute to their family and society, she added.
“Our aim as health professionals is to help them achieve good health through early screening, detection, management and sharing information with families.”