Down syndrome in the Belluno district (Veneto region, northeast Italy): age distribution and morbidity.

A structured pre-planned form was used to collect data on age distribution and morbidity of Down Syndrome (DS). Survival rates are also reported. The incidence of autoimmune disease among DS individuals was higher than in the normal population. Alopecia (7%), atopic dermatitis (35%), and autoimmune thyroiditis were the most frequently reported conditions, but diabetes and ulcerative colitis were also observed.