For advocates of those living with Prader-Willi Syndrome, May is their month-long drive to increase awareness in the general community, as well as in healthcare, research, and government. A key to May Prader-Willi Syndrome is education. Only from a better understanding can families and those with the disability receive better support, protections, and treatments.
What Is Prader-Willi Syndrome?
Prader-Willi Syndrome (PSW) is the result of an abnormality on the 15th chromosome that leads to a complex and varying genetic neurobehavioral disorder. Prader-Willi Syndrome doesn’t recognize race or biological gender. Estimates range from 1 in 15,000 to 1 in 25,000 being born with the syndrome, equally distributed between genders and races.
The typical symptoms of PSW include short stature if not treated using growth hormones, low muscle tone, incomplete sexual development, cognitive deficits, problem behaviors, and a chronic feeling of hunger that can have devastating effects such as life-threatening obesity.
15 Ways in May to Show Support for Prader-Willi Syndrome Awareness Month
The Foundation For Prader-Willi Research (FPWR) has released 15 ways you can advocate for PSW during the month of May — and all year long.
Whether your family has been impacted by PSW, or you are a supporter who wants to help spread awareness, there are many different ways you can help.
The list of 15 ways includes using social media to get the word out in a single click with their pre-designed informational post, buying and displaying PSW awareness merchandise, and contacting elected officials asking for their support with key legislation that can help everyone affected by PSW.
Take a few minutes today to be part of this important grass-roots effort!
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