National Fragile X Awareness Day Highlights Connection to Autism

Did you know that Fragile X syndrome, the most common inherited intellectual and developmental disability, is the most common single-gene cause of autism? 

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FRAXA Research Foundation studies the Fragile X connection as the best key to solving autism.  As many Fragile X and autism symptoms are similar, it may be confusing for caregivers to understand getting not one, but two diagnoses. Fragile X affects both males and females, but more frequently and severely in males. While there are physical characteristics associated with the syndrome, life expectancy for those with Fragile X is not affected as there are no health concerns associated with the syndrome.

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Some of the characteristics and syndromes of Fragile X include:

· Behavioral issues including aggression, hyperactivity, impulsivity and repetitive words and actions
· Flaccid muscles and coordination problems
· Common physical features include large ears, prominent jaw and forehead and flat feet.

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The Fragile X gene was discovered in the early 1990s and research is underway to cure it, prevent it and treat it as well as learn more about its link to autism.

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At Flatrock, we work with some residents with autism spectrum disorder, and our mission is to make sure all our care home residents live as full, independent and successful a life as possible in spite of their challenges