Down Syndrome Awareness Month – October 20, 2025

Did you know? Breast cancer, colon cancer, and most solid tumor cancers are uncommon in people with Down syndrome. 

Many solid tumor cancers such as breast cancer and colon cancer are less common in people with Down syndrome compared to people without Down syndrome. One exception is testicular cancer, which is more common in men with Down syndrome than men without Down syndrome. 

Differences in incidence of cancers have implications for screening tests such as mammograms and colonoscopies. The risks and benefits of screening tests may not be the same for people with and without Down syndrome. We recommend that individuals with Down syndrome discuss health screening recommendations with their healthcare professionals to make a decision that is appropriate for their circumstances. 

Brian Chicoine, MD, discusses factors to consider about screening tests in this article on Breast Cancer Screening.