International Angelman Syndrome Day

International Angelman Syndrome Day, is observed annually on February 15, to raise awareness for Angelman Syndrome – a rare, genetic disorder that affects chromosome 15, resulting in intellectual and developmental delay.

‍Children born with Angelman syndrome have developmental delays that are usually apparent before by the age of one. Other common signs and symptoms that appear in early childhood often include seizures, mobility and balance disorders, intellectual disabilities and severe speech impairments. Despite these challenges, people with Angelman syndrome typically have a happy and excitable demeanor and are often seen smiling and laughing. Hyperactivity and a fascination with water are common. Many children have difficulty sleeping and need less sleep than usual. As they get older, sleep problems, seizures and excitability may decrease, but because of mobility issues, obesity and scoliosis can become a problem.

‍As of now, there is no cure for Angelman syndrome. Treatment is based on an individual's needs and may include special education, physical, occupational, and speech therapy, and/or medication for seizure control. With proper life-long care and appropriate treatments, people with Angelman syndrome can expect to live a long and happy life.

For more information, see:

https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007616.htm

https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/5810/angelman-syndrome

https://www.pchc.org/hpaps.html