Prader-Willi syndrome is a genetic disorder that affects growth, behavior, and learning. There is no cure for the syndrome, but continual monitoring and treatment may improve a person’s quality of life.
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Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a rare genetic disorder that develops due to the deletion of chromosome 15. People with PWS may experience poor growth and low muscle tone in childhood, low muscle mass, and excessive eating as they age.
While PWS on its own does not cause early death, complications from overeating and obesity may shorten an individual’s lifespan.
Here’s what you should know about PWS, what issues may potentially cause death, and what may prevent life threatening complications.
The median age of death for a person with PWS is ages
An individual may live a shorter or longer life depending on a number of factors. Overall, the life expectancy for people with PWS ranges between
Respiratory failure is the most common cause of death, responsible for up to
According to the National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom, the risk of early death may increase If a person eats excessively (hyperphagia), gains weight, and develops health conditions related to obesity.
Other potential
- cardiovascular issues
- type 2 diabetes
- gastrointestinal issues
- infection and sepsis
- choking
- other accidents
Experts share that there is
One of the biggest risk factors for early death is obesity. One study indicates that up to
Low levels of human growth hormone or delayed treatment with human growth hormone may also
More specifically, compulsive eating is a significant predictor of early death. Treatment that reduces the drive to eat may help with this symptom and prevent occurrences such as choking and obesity that lead to accidents and health complications.
Treating low growth hormone issues may also help.
There is no cure for PWS. However, with advances in treatment and management, the death rate has been decreasing by around
How long do individuals with Prader-Willi syndrome typically live?
Sources differ on the exact age. Some say the mean age of death is around age
What is the most common cause of death in people with Prader-Willi syndrome?
Respiratory failure (adults) and respiratory infection (children) are the
Can you develop Prader-Willi syndrome as an adult?
No, PWS is a condition that people are born with. That said, some people
PWS itself does not shorten a person’s life expectancy. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment may prevent associated complications from becoming life threatening.
Additionally, many people with PWS may die suddenly or unexpectedly. For this reason,