Prader-Willi Syndrome: A Review and Implications for Educational Intervention

Abstract

Prader-Willi syndrome is a condition affecting approximately one out of every 15,000 individuals and characterized by excessive overeating, obesity, and variant degrees of mental retardation. It is caused by an anomaly in the number 15 chromosome. Infants with Prader-Willi syndrome experience failure to thrive conditions and hypotonia. During the first two years of life, however, excessive eating becomes the primary characteristic. Unless controlled with a strict weight management intervention program, persons with the syndrome become obese and experience health complications associated with such a condition. Educational personnel must understand this condition and their role in intervention in order to facilitate school success for children and adolescents with the syndrome and prepare them for adulthood.

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