The Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) is a genetic disease characterized by Hypotonia, Hypogenitalism obesity, and Mental Retardation Acromicria. Hypotonia leads to respiratory infections and feeding problems. Obesity starts between 6 months and 6 years.

This syndrome described in 1956 is of genetic origin located on chromosome 15 occurring at conception. It affects boys and girls in a complex framework of symptoms throughout their lives, varying in presence and intensity from one individual to another. Early diagnosis, before symptoms appear, especially obesity, can brought an improvement in the quality of life for the patients. But even in case of late diagnosis, a lot of care can be initiated by retaining the quality of life.

There is a very characteristic behavioral phenotype, as in the first years of life suffering children are usually cheerful and good-natured. However later on, the childhood behavior problems begin, as they become stubborn, use certain topics of language repeatedly and experience frequent bouts of anger.

Symptoms of Prader Willi Syndrome

Prader Willi Syndrome symptoms vary from one individual to the other and are also associated with the environment in which the victim lives, the main symptoms are:

• Hyperphagia – constant feeling of hunger and interest in food, which may arise between 2 and 5 years of age and lead to obesity in childhood
• Hypotonia – late phases typical of psychomotor development in infancy. Later weak muscle tone, difficulty with some movements, balance, writing, use of instruments, slowness
• Learning difficulties and speech
• Emotional instability and immaturity in social exchanges
• Hormonal changes – delayed sexual maturation
• Short stature
• Decreased sensitivity to pain
• Small hands and feet
• Lighter skin than their parents
• Small mouth with thin upper lip and tilted down in the corners of the mouth
• Narrow forehead
• Almond eyes and strabismus

How Canadian Benefits Help?

Fortunately, there is help for those with Prader Willi Syndrome in the form of Disability Tax Credit. Canadian Disability Benefits ensure that each person receives in the full amount and not miss out on these benefits. Canadian Disability Benefits acts on the behalf of the applicant to make the process of obtaining the disability benefits in a much faster way.