Downs : the history of a disability /

Down syndrome is a chromosomal abnormality that results in physical anomalies, e.g., heart valve defects, mental limitations. The disorder's eponym, John Langdon Down (1828-96), was a British physician who specialized in children who were marginalized at birth because of inherited characteristics. Historian Wright (McGill Univ., Canada) places this syndrome in the broad historical context of the functionally challenged, starting in the 17th century and continuing to the present. His survey covers the periods when this condition was referred to as "Mongolism" and was seen as a result of parental alcoholism or disease, particularly syphilis or tuberculosis. Societal programs and policies for dealing with Down's receive particular emphasis, especially eugenics. Media representation of the person who has Down syndrome also receives special attention. The populations covered include Europe, North America, Australasia, and Japan. South America, China, India, and Africa are not covered. Well-documented endnotes and a brief glossary support the text. Valuable for all libraries with a health sciences component in their curriculum. Summing Up: Recommended. All readership levels. R. D. Arcari University of Connecticut School of Medicine