Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a genetic condition that causes intellectual disability, behavioral and learning challenges, and various physical characteristics. Though FXS occurs in both genders, males are more frequently affected than females, and generally with greater severity.
- 46% of Fragile X males have autism
- 16% of Fragile X females have autism
- 1-6% of individuals with autism, also have Fragile X
FXS is an inherited condition, meaning it is passed down from parents to children. The gene changes associated with FXS can increase when passed from a mother to her child. This means that a woman who shows no symptoms of Fragile X can still have a child affected by the syndrome.
FXS affects individuals of all ethnicities, races, and socio-economic backgrounds. The name “Fragile X” comes from the appearance of the X chromosome where the gene mutation occurs, not because individuals with the FMR1 mutation are in any way “fragile.”
When interacting with someone diagnosed with FXS for the first time, you may notice that they exhibit behavioral traits similar to those seen in individuals with autism. This is particularly common in children with Fragile X Syndrome..
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