Mysore/Mysuru: Noted paediatrician Dr. S.N. Mothi emphasised that one in every thousand babies born in our country is affected by dementia. He urged parents not to perceive this condition as a disability, but rather to support the child’s personality development.

Dr. Mothi shared his views during the inauguration of the ‘World Down Syndrome Day’ programme, jointly organised by the All India Institute of Speech and Hearing (AIISH) and the Indian Academy of Paediatrics  at  AIISH Seminar Hall, here recently.

Parents should not underestimate the potential of children with dementia. Instead, they should prioritise the physical and mental well-being of their child. Dr. Mothi noted that specially-abled children often demonstrate intelligence comparable to or exceeding that of typically developing children. With ample exposure to various platforms, they can excel, he said.

Dr. Mothi highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent acknowledgement of a specially-abled girl from Surat for her achievements in Yoga at the national level. He underscored the importance of creating a conducive environment for specially-abled children’s physical and mental growth.

Furthermore, he stressed that every child is unique and deserves love and attention from their parents. Despite challenges posed by hereditary factors and chromosomal abnormalities like Down Syndrome, Dr. Mothi encouraged parents to cherish their child’s presence and strive for their well-being.

In India, an estimated 29,000 to 30,000 children are affected by Down Syndrome. Additionally, one in every 750 children suffers from dementia, with many cases observed in rural areas.

If parents provide the same opportunities to specially-abled children as they do to typically developing children, these children can strive to reach their full potential. It’s crucial to instil a love for learning and education in children with Down Syndrome Dr. Mothi noted.

In her keynote address, AIISH Director M. Pushpavathi underscored the importance of this year’s Down Syndrome Day theme. She urged parents to create a supportive environment for their children to achieve their goals.

President of Mysuru Unit of the Indian Academy of Paediatrics Dr. M.R. Prashanth and Paediatric Neurologist Dr. Anusha Raj were present.