World Congress in Heidelberg: Latest findings on developmental disorders!

World Congress in Heidelberg: Latest findings on developmental disorders!

in Heidelberg since June 24, everything has been about developmental disorders and disabilities in children. The International Congress, which ends with an “Action Day” today, combines over 100 affected people from 25 countries. This is where researchers, experts from science, industry and parent groups come together to exchange the latest knowledge and to improve the conditions for affected children and their families. [SWR] reports that Congress President Rainer Blank focuses on current specialist knowledge and innovative therapy approaches.

An impressive example from the ranks of those affected is the 12-year-old Matilda, who suffers from myt1l syndrome. This rare syndrome leads to a neurological developmental disorder that can include symptoms such as sensitivity, difficulties in stimulus processing, language and running delays as well as overweight. Matilda poses the challenges of everyday life with remarkable strength and recently took part in a study in the German Cancer Research Center in Heidelberg, in which a new medication is being tested that could possibly alleviate their symptoms.

insights into myt1l syndrome

The myt1l-associated neurological developmental disorder is an autosomal-dominant disease. Affected people often show significant delays in motor, linguistic and cognitive skills. According to [Orpha], Matilda belongs to one of the few children in Germany who take part in the clinical testing of an epilepsy medication that could possibly have a positive effect on their symptoms. Their diagnosis was the result of an intensive search that got rolling through a gene sequencing in 2019.

The theme of such developmental disorders is not only important for those affected, but also for their families. Maja Hempel, head of the genetic polyclinic at the Heidelberg University Hospital, emphasizes how important a comprehensive support for parents of children with rare diseases is. The challenge often begins with the diagnosis and runs into the everyday life of these families.

Develop and treat developmental disorders

Development disorders in children are versatile. They range from delays in motor development to linguistic difficulties to social and emotional abnormalities. According to the [child psychiatric children's neurology], the causes are diverse and can include genetic factors, pregnancy complications or environmental influences. Early detection and targeted support are crucial to enable the affected children to start a better start.

In today's world, it is of great importance that affected families have access to comprehensive support and resources. The Congress in Heidelberg has shown that an international exchange among experts and families not only drives research, but also strengthens awareness of these important topics.

With the conclusion of the congress, the participants in the "Action Day" in the Stephen-Hawking School in Neckargemünd will build up further networks and develop strategic approaches to sustainably improve the living conditions for children with developmental disorders.