John Langdon Down

John Langdon Down (pronounced: /dʌʊn/; etymology: English) was a British physician and medical researcher. He is best known for his pioneering work in the field of genetics and developmental disorders, particularly the condition now known as Down syndrome, which he first described in 1866.

Early Life and Education

John Langdon Down was born in Torpoint, Cornwall, England, in 1828. He studied medicine at the London Hospital Medical College, where he developed an interest in pathology and neurology.

Career

After completing his medical studies, Down worked at the Royal Earlswood Asylum for Idiots in Redhill, Surrey, where he began his research into developmental disorders. His most significant contribution to medicine was his description of a specific type of mental disability that would later be named Down syndrome in his honor.

Down Syndrome

Down syndrome, also known as trisomy 21, is a genetic disorder caused by the presence of all or part of a third copy of chromosome 21. It is typically associated with physical growth delays, characteristic facial features, and mild to moderate intellectual disability. The average IQ of a young adult with Down syndrome is 50, equivalent to the mental ability of an 8- or 9-year-old child, but this varies widely.

Legacy

John Langdon Down's work has had a profound impact on our understanding of genetic disorders and developmental disabilities. His research has led to significant advancements in the diagnosis, treatment, and care of individuals with Down syndrome.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on John Langdon Down
Wikipedia's article - John Langdon Down

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John Langdon Down