Earliest Known Case of Down Syndrome Dates Back to Neanderthals
Earliest Known Case of Down Syndrome Dates Back to Neanderthals
A groundbreaking study has revealed that a Neanderthal child with Down syndrome lived for at least six years, indicating the presence of compassionate care among these ancient humans. Discovered at the Cova Negra archaeological site in Spain, a 40,000-year-old fossil exhibited inner ear anatomy characteristic of Down syndrome. This finding marks the oldest known evidence of the genetic condition, shedding light on the social dynamics of Neanderthal communities.
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A fossil preserving the entire inner ear anatomy was discovered in 1989 but its significance was not understood until recently.
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The combination of Tina's inner ear abnormalities is only seen in individuals with Down syndrome.
The exact age of the fossil could not be determined, but the presence of Neanderthals in the Cova Negra region is dated between 273,000 and 146,000 years ago.
Previous evidence of Neanderthals caring for their sick and injured has sparked a debate about whether this behavior was driven by mutual expectations or genuine compassion.
"The discovery of Tina represents the oldest known case of Down syndrome."
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