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What Is It?Down syndrome is a disorder caused by an abnormality of the chromosomes — the pieces of DNA containing the blueprint for the human body. Normally a person has two copies of each chromosome, but a person with Down syndrome has three copies of chromosome 21. The condition also is called trisomy 21. In a few cases, the extra copy is attached to another chromosome (translocation), or found in only some of the person's cells (mosaicism). The extra DNA produces the physical and mental characteristics of Down syndrome, which include a small head that is flattened in the back; slanted eyes; extra skin folds at the corners of the eyes; small ears, nose and mouth; short stature; small hands and feet; and some degree of mental disability. Between 3,000 and 5,000 children with Down syndrome are born each year in the United States.
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From Health A-Z, Harvard Health Publications. Copyright 2007 by the President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Written permission is required to reproduce, in any manner, in whole or in part, the material contained herein. To make a reprint request, contact Harvard Health Publications. Used with permission of StayWell.
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A new study from the National Institutes of Health found that the most sedentary individuals are 2.5 times more likely to develop dementia than regular exercisers.
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Beets are an underrated vegetable. They're sweet and flavorful. If you think you don't like them, try them in this recipe. Roasting brings out the beets' natural sweetness, and the feta offers a nice, salty contrast.
TIP: Buy your beets with the greens still attached--it's great way to check for freshness and the greens can be used for another recipe.
Full Recipe
