One among 1000 live births in India has 'Down Syndrome': Govt

New Delhi: One case of 'Down Syndrome' is reported among every 1000 live births in India and a provision has been made for initiating early intervention for the management of the genetic disorder, government told Rajya Sabha today.

In the western countries, this figure is one against 800 live births, Health Minister J P Nadda said while replying to questions.

Nadda said the chances of 'Down Syndrome' in India are lessened because marriages take place early in this country, in contrast to the western countries where marriages often take place at a later age of life.

Early detection of birth defects including the 'Down Syndrome' is carried out by clinical screening of all children from 0-18 years of age and provision has also been made for initiating early intervention for the management of the 'Down Syndrome', he said.

Down syndrome is a genetic disorder which is typically associated with physical growth delays, characteristic facial features, and mild to moderate intellectual disability.

Nadda said the Government of India is implementing Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram to screen all children upto 18 years of age through early detection of birth defects, diseases, deficiencies, development delays including disability and provides comprehensive care including surgeries at the tertiary level free of cost under National Health Mission.