"Down Syndrome: More Than Just an Extra Chromosome"

Presented by Erica Peirson, ND

Optimizing the health of children and adults who are differently-abled has long been ignored in medical school curricula. Their unique healthcare needs require a unique approach that includes looking beyond their primary diagnosis or genetic condition and avoiding diagnostic overshadowing.

While genetics cannot be changed addressing the root cause of health issues that those with Down syndrome experience creates an opportunity to improve their overall health, development and cognition. The root cause of these issues often lies in malabsorption, gastrointestinal dysbiosis, methylation issues, mitochondrial dysfunction, glucose metabolism issues and other actionable biochemical imbalances that can be impacted through diet, supplements, and lifestyle changes. Down syndrome gives us an example of how a genetic condition can result in a large variability in phenotype. This variability is where one can clearly see that there is more impacting the health and development of these children than simply an extra chromosome.

Learning Objectives:

• Treating genetic conditions with functional labs

• What is Diagnostic Overshadowing

• Key areas of health to address in children with developmental delay and genetic variations

Biography:

Dr. Peirson is a Naturopathic physician who specializes in using a functional medical approach to optimize the health and development of children with Down syndrome and other genetic and neurodevelopmental conditions. She is the mother of a healthy, thriving 12 year old boy who happens to have mosaic Down syndrome and has benefited from her expertise. She has lectured globally to share with others the many ways she helps her patients thrive, in addition to helping patients all over the world in her private practice.