Let’s make an inclusive tomorrow
Alan Foundation | Terminology
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What to Say (and What not to Say)

When speaking about issues relating to Down syndrome in a way that is both factually accurate and inoffensive to the general public, including people with Down syndrome and their families, please consider the table below:

  • DO NOT SAY

    • Suffers from OR is a victim of Down syndrome
    • A Downs baby/person/child
    • Mentally handicapped/backward
    • Disease/illness/handicap
    • Downs (as an abbreviation)

  • DO SAY

    • Has syndrome
    • A person/baby/child with Down syndrome or who has Down syndrome
    • Learning disability
    • Condition OR genetic condition
    • DS (as an abbreviation if necessary)