Some can lead a very normal life. However, many people with Williams syndrome go on to lead happy and successful lives. 5th ed. One of the characteristics of Williams syndrome is an inappropriate increase in social behavior. Williams syndrome is a genetic disorder that occurs in about 1 in 7,500 people. Did Billy Graham speak to Marilyn Monroe about Jesus? Additional features may include a vertical skin fold on the inner corners of the eyes (epicanthal folds), a small pointed chin, prominent ears, and/or an unusually long vertical groove in the center of the upper lip (philtrum). They may have trouble eating, and might not gain weight or grow as quickly as other children. Symptoms may include unusual heart sounds (murmurs), difficulty breathing, chest pain, and, in severe cases, congestive heart failure. But this lack of fear has a scary side, too. Last updated: Williams syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by hypersociability and unique neurocognitive abnormalities. Katherine Taylor's 5-year-old daughter Lauren was born with Williams syndrome, a rare genetic condition that causes growth and developmental delays, health problems and distinctive facial features. People with the syndrome also tend to have very social, outgoing personalities and take an extreme interest in others. "He had his heart surgery when he was a baby," Self told "20/20." Symptoms may vary depending on environmental factors and typically worsen when sustained attention is required. developmental delay, cardiovascular problems, and an "elfin" facial I can't help but think that the Britain's got Talent star Susan Boyle may have it. Williams syndrome, also known as Williams-Beuren syndrome, is a rare genetic disorder characterized by growth delays before and after birth (prenatal and In addition to her musical career, Love has also acted in a number of films and television shows, including Man on the Moon, Sons Cecil Textbook of Medicine. Individuals with Williams syndrome will not have all the symptoms listed below. Its really all about helping fellow human beings on this earth. The American Academy of Pediatrics released a policy statement in May 2001 on the topic, Health Care Supervision for Children with Williams Syndrome (RE0034). At the same time, though, shes devastated when her sister, Sophie (Mlissa Dsormeaux-Poulin), who helps look after her, suggests that she may join her boyfriend in India, where he works with underprivileged children. Asperger's Syndrome However, some children are of average intelligence with severe learning disabilities. Leprechaunism is a rare progressive inherited endocrine disorder characterized by overgrowth (hyperplasia) of the pancreas, inability to properly utilize insulin (insulin resistance), and excessive amounts of estrogen. 23 Interesting Facts About Williams Syndrome + Life Then the doctor will look for facial features like an upturned nose, wide forehead, and small teeth. Philadelphia, PA: W.B. Many babies have life-threatening cardiovascular problems. Learn more by visiting theWilliams Syndrome Association>, Have questions? MAY IS WILLIAMS SYNDROME AWARENESS MONTH! 800.806.1871 Kelley's mother, Anne, realized what was happening $1,500 later. Jones KL. This deletion is believed to occur in the majority of individuals with Williams Syndrome. The development of secondary sexual characteristics (e.g., pubic hair and underarm hair) may occur prematurely (precocious puberty) in children with this disorder. The deletion can occur randomly during the production of a sperm or egg cell. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill, Inc; 1998:2235. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Suite 116 WebWilliams syndrome (WS) is a genetic condition that is present at birth and can affect anyone. Some scientists have said people with the condition look a bit like Mick Jagger, and have shown curiosity as to whether he may have a lesser form of the disorder. Is that okay, or am I going to look like a knob in bed? He does not. Williams Syndrome Famous People Many famous people have WS including singer/songwriter Carly Simon and opera singer Andrea Bocelli. It may also cause reduced growth during childhood, and the majority of adults The development of our personalities is a complex relationship between our social environment and our genes -- both present and not. Most people with Williams syndrome are less than average height during their adult years. I do not think the public knows him well, but from how he acts to reporters it does not seem he has the personality of someone with William's syndrome. One of the most common heart problems in children with Williams syndrome can be narrow pulmonary arteries, the arteries that carry blood to the lungs. Hyperactivity and attention deficit disorder are also common, although most affected individuals have good long-term memory. Williams Syndrome Famous People is a rare genetic condition that causes mild to moderate intellectual disability and also unique personality traits. Williams syndrome is a genetic condition that is present at birth and can affect anyone. This disorder is usually observed before the child reaches the age of 4 years. It has often been dubbed the 'opposite of autism'. The story is set on Earth near the end of the 21st century, probably between 2082 and 2089, in a world where technology has advanced somewhat beyond the present. Calcium metabolism in Williams-Beuren syndrome. With input from doctors, researchers, and the US Food & Drug Administration, NORD has created IAMRARE to facilitate patient-powered natural history studies to shape rare disease research and treatments.