Despite greater awareness, misconceptions about Down syndrome continue to persist, often leaving people with an incomplete understanding of the condition. One Malaysian doctor and father is hoping to change that by using his medical knowledge and personal experience to help others better understand the genetic condition.
Taking to Threads, Dr Isyafiq (@isyafiqtempe), shared insights into the science behind Down syndrome and addressed common misconceptions surrounding it. As both a medical professional and a father to a child with Down syndrome, he offers a perspective that is both informed by science and shaped by his own experiences.
In his post, Dr Isyafiq emphasised three key points about Down syndrome, drawing on his perspective as both a doctor and a father to a child with the condition.
“As a doctor and a father to a child with Down syndrome, I would like to emphasise that:
- An NT scan is a screening test used to assess the risk of genetic conditions, but it is not a diagnostic test.
- No specific food, supplement, cosmetic ingredient or perfume directly causes genetic syndromes.
- Down syndrome occurs due to an error in chromosome division during early pregnancy, which is beyond the parents’ control,” his post read.
Why Down syndrome isn’t parents’ fault and other misconceptions explained
Speaking to WORLD OF BUZZ, Dr Isyafiq said his main motivation was to raise awareness about Down syndrome and make the science behind the condition easier for the public to understand.
By combining his medical knowledge with his experience as a father to a child with Down syndrome, he hopes to address common misconceptions and help people better understand the condition.
According to him, one of the biggest misconceptions is that Down syndrome is always inherited or caused by something the parents did during pregnancy.
He also clarified that no specific food, supplement, cosmetic product or perfume directly causes genetic syndromes.
“In reality, most cases happen randomly due to an error during chromosome division. It’s nobody’s fault.
“Another misconception is that children with Down syndrome cannot lead meaningful and fulfilling lives. They may develop differently and need additional support, but they are individuals with their own personalities, abilities and potential,” he explained.
Urges parents to focus on support, not fear
For parents who have just received a Down syndrome diagnosis for their newborn, Dr Isyafiq reassured that it is normal to feel scared, overwhelmed or uncertain.
He also encouraged them to give themselves time to process their emotions and remember that the diagnosis does not define their child’s future.
“Don’t be afraid or worried when you are blessed with these special children. Be happy!” he shared.
He urged the parents to seek early intervention and appropriate medical support while celebrating their child’s progress, no matter how small the milestone.
Above all, he emphasised that children with Down syndrome deserve the same love, dignity and opportunities as everyone else.
“It’s okay to feel scared, overwhelmed or uncertain after receiving the diagnosis. Give yourself time to process everything.
“Don’t let the diagnosis define your child’s entire future. Focus on getting the right medical care, early intervention and support, and celebrate every little milestone along the way,” he added.
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