Down Syndrome Sensory Processing

Project by Polygence alum Zoya

Down Syndrome Sensory Processing

Project's result

My project outcome consisted of creating a research paper and presenting it to the Symposium of Rising Scholars event through Polygence.

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Summary

Down Syndrome affects almost 6,000 newborns in the United States. It is one of the most common genetic disorders, yet not much is known behind its neurological development and behaviors. While physical traits such as short stature and unique facial features are seen and well understood, internal processes are often disregarded. Patients with Down syndrome are often overstimulated with loud noises. The etiology behind this overstimulation remains unanswered or often neglected. My focus will be on the difficulties of sensory processing that influence their distinctive behavior. Through literature review I sought to gain knowledge on the neurological development as it pertains to sensory responses for patients with Down Syndrome. The main cause for sensitivity to sounds within patients who have Down Syndrome is a condition called Hyperacusis and also having an early exposure to Alzheimer's disease. The Stapedius Acoustic Reflex is another major component to the issue of sensory precessing. Such sensitivity reveals why pain and discomfort is experienced when processing loud sounds. By providing proper understanding of the struggles individuals with Down Syndrome face, I am to facilitate a healthy environment in which respectful and empathetic interactions among patients and community members are promoted.

Evelyn

Evelyn

Polygence mentor

MD Doctor of Medicine candidate

Subjects

Languages, Medicine, Social Science, Neuroscience

Expertise

Neuroscience, Women's Studies, Medicine, Spanish, Quality Improvement Research, Health outcomes research, Oncological Research, Health disparities research

Zoya

Zoya

Student

Hello! My name is Zoya Syed and I am from California. My Polygence Project was a research paper on the connections between brain development in individuals with Downs Syndrome leading to hearing sensitivity and affecting behavior. I hope to use this project as an inspiration for my dream career as a Neurologist in the future.

Graduation Year

2024

Project review

“The process of organizing my research went very smoothly.”

About my mentor

“My mentor made sure that I had a path that I was following and gave me suggestions on how I can improvise my writing. ”