Huntington's disease identified in Acre and other Brazilian municipalities

A new national mapping conducted by the Associação Brasil Huntington (ABH) has identified cases of Huntington's disease (HD) in several Brazilian municipalities, including Acrelândia and Assis Brasil in the state of Acre. The study, which covered 608 municipalities across all five regions of Brazil, also identified cases in the Northern region within the states of Amazonas, Pará, Rondônia, and Tocantins.

Huntington's disease is a hereditary neurodegenerative condition caused by a mutation in the gene responsible for producing the huntingtin protein, leading to the progressive degeneration of nerve cells in the basal ganglia. Symptoms typically emerge between ages 30 and 50, though they can affect children and the elderly.

The survey revealed significant social and economic challenges for those affected. The average age of mapped individuals is 52, with 82% already exhibiting symptoms. Findings indicate that two-thirds of participants are unaware of their social security rights, and only 26% receive government assistance. Additionally, 56.9% of families reported negative reactions to a diagnosis, including fear and discrimination. The Unified Health System (SUS) remains the primary entry point for medical consultations and hospitalizations.