About Friedreich's Ataxia
Friedreich's Ataxia (FA) is a rare, debiltating, life-shortening, degenerative neuro-muscular disorder.
Signs and Symptoms may include:
- loss of coordination (ataxia) in the arms and legs
- vision impairment, hearing loss, slurred speech
- fatigue due to energy deprivation and muscle loss
- aggressive scoliosis (curvature of the spine)
- serious heart conditions (enlarged heart- hypertrophic cardiomyopathy)
- diabetes mellitus (insulin-dependent)
**all symptoms are not present in each individual with FA
Facts:
- Only about 1 in 50,000 people in the United States have FA
- Diabetes occurs in about 10-20% of individuals with FA
- Mental capabilities of people with FA remain completely intact
- Progressive loss of coordination and muscle strength leads to motor incapacitation and the full-time use of a wheelchair
- Most young people diagnosed with FA require mobility aids such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair by their teens or early twenties
For more information, please visit www.curefa.org to learn more about Friedreich's Ataxia and FARA, the organization funding research for this rare disease.