Prader-Willi syndrome

Prader-Willi syndrome is a disability associated with a severe eating disorder typically leading to obesity and associated health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart problems. The specific features of PWS vary from person to person, but nearly all people with this condition have a voracious appetite over which they have little control. To control their food intake, many people with PWS are placed in specialized treatment centers or state institutions (despite their substantial cognitive abilities) because, at present, there is no known medical or psychological treatment for Prader-Willi syndrome.

Resources:

• Services and Programs
• Links and Resources
• Upcoming Events
• StudyFinder
• Grants
• Faculty

Services and Programs

• Arts and Disabilities at the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center
  Programs include exhibits by artists with disabilities and activities for people with disabilities to practice and express themselves through art.
• Best Buddies
  Best Buddies Colleges pairs people with intellectual disabilities in one-to-one friendships with college students.
• Shriver Transitions and Sports Camp for People with Disabilities
  Summer camp experience for students with developmental disabilities between the ages of 16 and 22. The camp offers tools to guide campers toward self-empowerment, realization of life goals, and real techniques to achieve a full and independent life.
• Tennessee Disability Pathfinder - An internet community and statewide helpline
  Phone, web, and print resources in English and Spanish to connect the Tennessee disability community with service providers. Referral services, free of cost, are provided to persons with disabilities, family members, service providers, and advocates.

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Links and Resources

• Prader-Willi syndrome - Health Library
  A resource of links and information concerning Prader-Willi syndrome.
• The Prader-Willi Syndrome Association
  PWSA (USA) is an organization of families and professionals working together to promote and fund research, provide education, and offer support to enhance the quality of life of those affected by Prader-Willi syndrome.

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Upcoming Events

• April, 07 2010
  Developmental Disabilities Grand Rounds - Prader-Willi Syndrome and Serotonin 2C Receptor Editing: Every Dogma Has its Day

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StudyFinder - Participate in a study related to Prader-Willi syndrome

Vanderbilt Kennedy Center researchers need subjects to complete the studies listed below.

• Behavior and Development in Persons with Prader-Willi Syndrome
• Parenting Children and Adults with Developmental Disabilities

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