Down Syndrome: Breaking the stigma to raise awareness

The 20th of October is declared Down Syndrome awareness Day in South Africa where we commemorate and raise awareness about the condition. Dr Nkateko Mnisi joins the discussion and highlights the impact of the condition, its prevalence, the misconceptions and what our social responsibility and response ought to be.

Statistics reveal that 1 in 500 children are born with Down Syndrome in South Africa, which makes up less than 1% of the population. Despite the low numbers, Dr Mnisi emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts to ensure an inclusive and safe community in which those living with Down Syndrome can thrive. 

Dr Nkateko Mnisi works as registrar in pediatrics at the Mankweng and Polokwane hospital in Limpopo. She is also an advocate for the roles doctors play and quality health care as the first deputy president of the South African Medical Association Trade Union.