People with Down syndrome are living longer than ever, now reaching an average life expectancy of about 60 years, and there is an urgent need to better understand how to support their health as they age.

To meet this need, School of Public Health (SPH) researchers contributed to a landmark evidence report, a systematic review of screening and treatment interventions for people with Down syndrome, which will be released this week in recognition of World Down Syndrome Day.

With funding support from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) Effectiveness Healthcare Program and Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI), the report highlights current evidence and identifies key areas for further research, including:

• People with Down syndrome have a higher prevalence of conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, hypothyroidism, obesity, and obstructive sleep apnea. In contrast, they show lower rates of certain solid tumors (including breast and lung cancers) and some cardiovascular conditions, such as coronary atherosclerosis and hypertension.
• A total of 36 studies evaluated treatment interventions across these conditions, with dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, representing the largest subset.
• Across clinical areas, evidence for interventions in adults with Down syndrome remains limited. However, some improvements were reported for dementia, depression, obstructive sleep apnea, and mobility.

By strengthening the evidence base, this work lays the foundation for updated clinical guidelines and more person-centered care helping ensure people with Down syndrome can live longer, healthier lives.

“Adults with Down syndrome are living longer than ever, but our health care system hasn’t kept pace,” said Hamdi Abdi, PhD, MPH, and lead author from SPH. “This evidence report is a critical step toward closing that gap, highlighting where care is falling short and identifying evidence-based strategies to help people with Down syndrome live healthier, fuller lives into adulthood.”