7 Facts You Need to Know About Tay-Sachs Disease

Rare, Fatal Disease

Tay-Sachs disease causes nerve cell death in the brain and spinal cord.

Caused by Gene Defect

Tay-Sachs results from a defective gene on chromosome 15.

Forms of Tay-Sachs

The disease has three forms: infantile, juvenile, and adult.

25% Risk in Carriers

If both parents carry the gene, there's a 25% chance a child will develop Tay-Sachs.

Progressive Symptoms

Muscle weakness, seizures, vision loss, and difficulty swallowing are common symptoms.

No Cure Available

There is no cure for Tay-Sachs, but treatments manage symptoms and slow progression.

Early Diagnosis Is Key

Accurate diagnosis helps manage the disease and reduce complications.

Not Limited by Ethnicity

Once common in Ashkenazi Jews, Tay-Sachs now affects diverse ethnic backgrounds.