Prader Willi syndrome and obesity

Prader Willi syndrome is a congenital disease (present from birth) that affects many parts of the body. People with this condition are obese, have decreased muscle tone and mental ability, as well as sex glands that produce little or no hormones. What causes it and how does it manifest?** This is caused by the lack of a gene in part of chromosome 15. Genetic changes occur randomly. Patients usually have no family history of this condition. It is therefore important to do genetic testing during pregnancy.** Some signs are: newborns tend to be small and flaccid, eating problems (at first they eat little and as they get older they binge eat), slow mental development, short stature, significant weight gain during the preschool stage. Children have intense food cravings and will do almost anything to get it, which can lead to uncontrollable weight gain and morbid obesity. This obesity can lead to type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and lung and joint problems.** What is its greatest consequence? Obesity represents the greatest threat to health. Reducing calories will control obesity, but family, neighbors, and school authorities must work together closely as the child will try to obtain food wherever possible. Additionally, exercise can increase lean body mass in children with this syndrome.** What about treatment?** Growth hormone is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (ADA) for the treatment of Prader-Willi syndrome. This helps to:** • Improve physical strength and agility** • Improve height** • Increase lean muscle mass and decrease body fat** • Improve weight distribution** • Increase stamina** • Increase bone mineral density.