Fragile X syndrome

Fragile X syndrome is the most common cause of inherited learning disability.

What is it?

Fragile X is a genetic condition more common in boys, and the impairment can range from mild to severe learning intellectual disabilities. Its UK incidence is one in 3000 males, and one in 6000 females.

How does it affect people?

Symptoms can include slow cognitive development, short attention span, emotional and communication difficulties, hand-flapping and hand-biting, and poor eye contact. Many people with Fragile X syndrome show autistic-like features.

What causes Fragile X syndrome?

Fragile X is caused by an abnormal gene on the X chromosome gene which does not function as it should.

Diagnosis

Fragile X is diagnosed by a blood test.

What treatment is available?

As well as support and guidance, cognitive development intervention, speech and language therapy and behaviour therapy can all be of help in treating this condition.