NATIONAL FRAGILE X AWARENESS DAY | JULY 22
Each year on July 22nd, National Fragile X Awareness Day celebrates those impacted by Fragile X syndrome. The day also raises support for research, education and awareness.
#FragileXAwarenessDay
Fragile X syndrome is a mutation of the FMR1 gene and is the most common form of inherited intellectual disability. It impacts men more than women, and while a person may have the gene mutation, sometimes they do not have any apparent signs. Those who do show signs may have mild or severe symptoms. Physical, intellectual and behavioral symptoms may appear, and they vary between males and females. Women tend to have similar but milder symptoms or none at all.
- Attention Deficit Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyper Activity Disorder, autism, anxiety, poor eye contact, sensory disorders, hand-biting or flapping, aggression.
- Learning disabilities
- Elongated face and ears
- Soft skin
- Macroorchidism or large testicles
- Connective tissue problems impacting ears, feet, joints and palate
- Very social
Testing and treatment are available, but because there is no cure, more research is needed. Through raising awareness, the day hope to further the search for a cure. National Fragile X Awareness Day takes place during National Fragile X Awareness Month to further highlight the importance of supporting families and finding a cure.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL FRAGILE X AWARENESS DAY
Celebrate the families impacted by Fragile X. Show your support by learning more about Fragile X. Other ways to participate include:
- Families, download and print Fragile X awareness cards.
- Donate to support research.
- Attend webinars or seminars about Fragile X.
- Host an event on social media.
- Organize a fundraiser.
- Join a support group.
- Share your experiences.
- Add a frame to your social media profile.
While you are participating, be sure to share #FragileXAwarenessDay on social media.
NATIONAL FRAGILE X AWARENESS DAY HISTORY
In 2000, the U.S. Senate passed a resolution naming July 22nd National Fragile X Awareness Day. The following year, the U.S. House passed a resolution also in support of the day. Both resolutions urged the day. National Institutes of Health, the CDC and researchers around the country and world to join the efforts to find a cure.
