Which demographic is more commonly affected by Fragile X syndrome?

Which demographic is more commonly affected by Fragile X syndrome?

• A. Boys
• B. Girls
• C. Adults
• D. Infants

Answer: (A)

Fragile X syndrome is a genetic condition that is most commonly found in males. This condition is caused by a mutation in the FMR1 gene on the X chromosome, and since males have only one X chromosome (in contrast to females, who have two), they are more severely affected. Males with this syndrome often exhibit more pronounced symptoms and cognitive impairments due to the lack of a second X chromosome that could potentially mitigate the effects of the mutation. In girls, even if they inherit the mutated gene, the presence of a second, typically functioning X chromosome can reduce the severity of the symptoms. Thus, while both boys and girls can be affected by Fragile X syndrome, boys are more commonly diagnosed with it and tend to show greater clinical signs of the disorder. This demographic difference is a key factor in understanding the prevalence and impact of Fragile X syndrome across different populations.

Fragile X syndrome is a genetic condition that is most commonly found in males. This condition is caused by a mutation in the FMR1 gene on the X chromosome, and since males have only one X chromosome (in contrast to females, who have two), they are more severely affected. Males with this syndrome often exhibit more pronounced symptoms and cognitive impairments due to the lack of a second X chromosome that could potentially mitigate the effects of the mutation.

In girls, even if they inherit the mutated gene, the presence of a second, typically functioning X chromosome can reduce the severity of the symptoms. Thus, while both boys and girls can be affected by Fragile X syndrome, boys are more commonly diagnosed with it and tend to show greater clinical signs of the disorder. This demographic difference is a key factor in understanding the prevalence and impact of Fragile X syndrome across different populations.