Children and Progeria

Image via Progeria Prezi

Progeria is a disease caused by a random mutation in your genes. This mutation alters the code for the gene that creates Lamin A, a protein that structures the nucleus. Because of this mutation, the nucleus is formed differently which causes people with Progeria to age rapidly and prematurely. Getting Progeria is extremely rare because this disease is only caused by one single mutation. It isn't hereditary so although rare, essentially anyone can have Progeria. The average lifespan of a person with Progeria is 13 years. Death is usually caused by stroke or other cardiovascular issues. Children who have Progeria usually have issues growing, trouble gaining weight, hair loss, aging skin, stiff joints, and heart issues. Until 2012, no sort of treatment worked attempting at reversing the negative affects of Progeria. In 2012, a clinical trial was created that tried a new medicine that was usually used with cancer patients called Lonafarnib. This medication was proved to slowly but surely make kids gain weight and reverse other symptoms. Some could argue against giving kids this medicine because their lifespan is already shortened by this disease. So why fight it if the option to enjoy an already shortened life is available? This is currently up for debate. With new medications working, the search to find the perfect solution for Progeria continues today.