SAUT Down Syndrome Association rejected the use of the term "Mongoloid" to describe individuals with Down Syndrome, confirming that this term gives a false impression that they are incapable of learning and living with dignity.
The association clarified that Down Syndrome is a condition, not a disease, and called for avoiding phrases like "afflicted with" or "suffering from" Down Syndrome.
The association noted that the average life expectancy for individuals with Down Syndrome has risen from 25 years in 1983 to 60 years currently. According to the McKinsey 2009 study, there are over 25,000 people with Down Syndrome in Saudi Arabia, and 85% of them have not received specialized educational services.
