May 3, 2021
LuMind IDSC supported the T21RS COVID-19 Initiative that brought about the original survey and the resulting analysis, which was recently published in The Lancet’s EClinical Medicine Journal.
We extend our thanks to the researchers who worked throughout the pandemic to bring this information to light, and the hundreds of families who contributed to this effort by taking part in the survey.
About the Study
The T21RS COVID-19 Initiative launched an international survey for clinicians or caregivers on patients with COVID-19 and DS. The results, which are based on >1,000 COVID-19 patients with DS, show that individuals with DS may present with more severe symptoms at hospitalization (e.g. confusion), and experience high rates of lung complications associated with increased mortality. In terms of sheltering/shielding individuals to prevent infection, more caution should be taken with individuals over age 40, which is about 20 years younger than the typical at-risk group in the general population. Individuals with DS aged 40 and older have a three-fold increased risk for mortality compared to the general population, which is not explained by additional comorbidities.
Implications of all the available evidence are that individuals with DS (especially those older than 40 years) are vulnerable to medical complications and increased risk for death related to COVID-19. Researchers conclude that individuals with DS should be considered a priority group for COVID-19 vaccination.
About the LuMind IDSC Foundation
The LuMind IDSC Foundation (LuMind IDSC) is a nonprofit organization that accelerates research to increase availability of therapeutic, diagnostic, and medical care options and empowers the largest online community of individuals with Down syndrome and their families with education, resources, connections, and support. Since 2004, LuMind IDSC raised a total of $85M in funding for Down syndrome research to prevent Alzheimer’s onset, improve cognition, develop gene therapies, and advance understanding. Visit www.LuMindIDSC.org to learn more or get involved.