What is Gilles de la Tourette Syndrome (GTS or TS)?
It is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects children, adolescents and adults. Its name comes from Georges Gilles de la Tourette (1857–1904), who described it first in detail. It is characterized by sudden involuntary movements and/or sounds, called “tics”. Tics can range from mild to moderate or severe. The average age of the syndrome’s onset is 7 years old, however tics must occur before the age of 18, to confirm the diagnosis. Males are three to four times more likely to develop the disease.
What is the effect of Tourette’s Syndrome?
The current research estimates that in the USA: 1 in 100 school-age children have Tourette’s Syndrome, or any other tic related disorder. According to the 2010 census US data, the probability of developing the syndrome in kids 5–17 years old, is 0,6%.
Is Tourette Syndrome inherited?
There are studies that testify to the existence of a genetic background in the appearance of GTS. Further research is underway to scientifically substantiate this hypothesis.
