What is the prevalence of Batten Disease?
How many people does Batten Disease affect? Does it have the same prevalence in men and women? And in the different countries?
Batten Disease is a rare genetic disorder that affects the nervous system, primarily in children. It is estimated to have a prevalence of approximately 2 to 4 cases per 100,000 individuals worldwide. This means that it is a relatively uncommon condition. Batten Disease is characterized by the progressive loss of motor skills, vision impairment, seizures, and cognitive decline. Although it is a rare disease, its impact on affected individuals and their families is significant. Ongoing research and support are crucial in understanding and managing this devastating condition.
Batten Disease, also known as Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (NCL), is a rare and devastating genetic disorder that primarily affects children. It is estimated to have a prevalence of approximately 2 to 4 cases per 100,000 live births. While Batten Disease can occur in any ethnic group, certain forms of the disease are more common in specific populations. For instance, the classic infantile form of Batten Disease is more prevalent in Finland, where it affects approximately 1 in every 20,000 births.
Batten Disease is characterized by the progressive degeneration of nerve cells in the brain and other tissues, leading to severe neurological symptoms. The disease typically manifests in early childhood, with affected children experiencing vision loss, seizures, cognitive decline, and motor impairment. Sadly, Batten Disease is currently incurable and ultimately fatal, with most affected individuals not surviving beyond their late teens or early twenties.
Given its rarity, Batten Disease poses significant challenges for diagnosis, treatment, and research. However, ongoing efforts by medical professionals, researchers, and patient advocacy groups aim to improve understanding, develop potential therapies, and provide support for affected individuals and their families.
