1. Chelsi Anderson Brad Solberg
Prader Willi Syndrome
Chelsi Anderson
Brad Solberg

2. Definition
Rare disorder present at birth that results in a number of physical, mental and behavior problems (Mayo Clinic)

3. Causes of Prader Willi Caused by an error in a gene or genes
Particularly in the region of chromosome 15
Chromosome15 is missing---70% of cases
Two copies of the chromosome % of cases
Or defect of chromosome Less than 5%
Due to the deficiency of chromosome 15, the hypothalamus is defected.
Hypothalamus controls hunger & thirst reflexes, sexual development, and stunted growth

4. Characteristics of Prader Willi
Constant hunger that is apparent early in the person’s life
Eat constantly
Difficulty controlling weight
Often suffer from obesity
Notice: narrow temples, thin upper lip, almond shaped eyes.

5. Stages Of PWS Failure to Thrive Birth to 2-5
Thriving Stage 2-5 through life
Low birth rate
Weak Muscle Tone
Feeding difficulties
Small hands and feet
Development delays
Excessive Sleepiness
Underdeveloped genitals
Increased appetite and weight control problems
Behavior problems
Learning problems, 60% having cognitive dis.
Fine and gross motor delays
Social skills deficit

6. Symptoms of Prader Willi
Food cravings
Underdeveloped sex organs [produce low hormones]
Poor physical development
Increased risk of learning disabilities
Speech problems
Behavioral problems [very stubborn when denied food]
Sleep disorders [sleep apnea]
Scoliosis [develop an abnormal curvature of the spine]

7. Medical Conditions Related to Prader Willi
Type 2 Diabetes
Heart Disease
Strokes
Sleep apnea
Sterility
Osteoporosis

8. Treatments Good nutrition Growth hormone treatment Overall development
Physical activity
Mental health care

9. Physical Activity: Treadmills
Promotes Cardiovascular Endurance
Can help lose or maintain weight
Stamina—people with PW tend to get tired easily
Incorporate goal setting for the student

10. Physical Activity: Pedometer
Could be used in daily PE class to monitor steps, set goals and record work effort
They could benefit from this because of the “number” it gives them
Instructors can provide a number for them to reach in the amount of time they
they have them in class

11. Physical Activity: Nutritional Puzzle Relay
Educating children as well as keeping them active
Promotes cardiovascular activity
Promotes student collaboration
Promotes strategic actions

12. Importance of Leisure Activities
Most with PW have difficulty participating in competitive sports
Leisure activities gives the student a chance to enjoy themselves with little or no competition
Promote them to continue to be active for a lifetime

13. Instructional Strategies
Because of the hypothalamus is effected, they have a poor short term memory
Their long term memory, however, is extremely strong
Keeping instructions clear, concise and to the point
May have to do lots of reminding
Encouragement

14. Lessons for teachers Never have food in the classroom (distraction)
Monitoring food is a medical necessity (have a snack plan)
No homework- children may understand the information in the environment it is taught but struggle outside that environment
Lack of structure and consistency can lead to anxiety
Helpful or empathetic approach to anger is better than a threatening approach.
Students require instruction on appropriate ways to handle anger

15. Physical Activity Modifications: Soccer
As far as skill level, keep them with others at the same level as theirs.
Smaller playing field for those with a low level of ability
Once they become unsuccessful, it’s going to be difficult to rekindle the fire again

16. Physical Activity Modifications: Track & Field
Let them choose what 3 activities they would like to practice for the day, but they must have at least 2 running events.
Do not time them unless they want to be timed.

17. Community Recreation & Competitive Sports
YMCA
Lion’s Club
Summer School Opportunities
Swimming at local pool

19. RESOURCES http://www.aafp.org/afp/2005/0901/p827.html