Fast Facts about Huntington’s Disease

What is HD?

An inherited, degenerative brain disorder.
A disease of both body and mind.
Symptoms generally appear between 30 and 50 years of age, but have appeared as young as 2 and as old as 70.
Each child of an HD parent has a 50% chance of inheriting the disorder and is said to be “at risk”.
HD usually progresses over a 10 to 25 year period.

Characteristics / Symptoms

Personality changes, depression, mood swings.
Unsteady gait, involuntary movements.
Slurred speech.
Impaired judgment.
Difficulty in swallowing.
Intoxicated appearance.

Affected Population

Approximately 30,000 Americans have HD.
HD occurs in approximately 1 in 10,000 people in most “western” countries. In other countries the prevalence may be much lower.
150,000 are at risk of inheriting HD form a parent.
Affects all races and ethnic groups.
Affects both sexes.
HD does not skip generations; if you do not inherit the gene, you cannot pass it on.
If you carry the gene, you will develop the disease if you live long enough, and can pass it on.

Challenge To The Entire Family

Each family member, whether they have the disease or not, is challenged emotionally, socially and economically.

Research Breakthrough

After a 10-year search, scientists announced in March 1993 that they found the gene which causes HD.

Genetic Testing

The gene discovery has made possible a new predictive test for HD allowing those at risk to find out whether or not they will develop the disease.
The new test generally requires a blood sample only form the person being tested, unlike the old test which required samples from several members.
Some testing centers may request a sample from a parent for confirmation purposes.
Pre- and post-test counseling is necessary and important part of the testing procedure.