FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Washington, Lincoln, Genetics, and More--New Twists On Old Tales
ATLANTA (PRWEB) July 24, 2005
Why was George Washington infertile? Why did Napoleon grow breasts? Why was Abraham Lincoln so tall and skinny? What did King George III and Dracula have in common?
These questions and more will be answered at the 2005 national conference of The American Association for Klinefelter Syndrome Information and Support (AAKSIS), “Klinefelter Syndrome—A Neverending Story,” to be held in Atlanta, Georgia at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, ATLANTA-AIRPORT, from Friday, July 29 thru Saturday, July 30, 2005.
Dr. Nathaniel Robin, Medical Geneticist at the University of Alabama and expert in the ethical issues of genetic testing and research, will explore why historic figures, whose physical characteristics included infertility, tall stature, and gynecomastia, are suspected of having Klinefelter syndrome.
Other Conference Speakers:
Neuroscientist, Jay Giedd, M. D., Chief of the Brain Imaging Unit at the National Institute of Mental Health; researcher of brain development in Klinefelter Syndrome; spearheaded research on the adolescent brain; featured in such TV presentations as The Secret Life of the Brain (PBS) Inside the Teenage Brain (Frontline, PBS), Secrets of the Teen Brain (cover story, Time Magazine, May 10, 2004).
Endocrinologists, Wolfram E. Nolten, M. D., Associate Professor, the University of Wisconsin, and recognized expert in Klinefelter Syndrome; Luciano Kolodny, M. D., HealthPartners of Minneapolis.
From Emory University--Paul Fernhoff, M. D., Director of Clinical Genetics and head of the Georgia newborn screening advisory task force; Neil E. Lamb, Ph. D., Director, Center for Medical Genomics; Jeannie Visootsak, M. D., F. A.A. P, Assistant Professor and Developmental Pediatrician.
Plastic/Reconstructive Surgeon, Michael Bermant, M. D., Virginia, nationally recognized expert in gynecomastia;
Carin V. Hopps, M. D., Assistant Professor of Urology, Chief of Male Reproductive Medicine and Microsurgery, and Director of Male Infertility/Sexual Medicine, Medical College of Ohio.
Author and psychologist, Daniel L. Davis, Ph. D.; latest book, Your Angry Child, A Guide for Parents.
Nicole Tartaglia, M. D., Developmental/Behavioral Pediatrics, UC-Davis Medical Center, M. I.N. D. Institute.
Additional speakers addressing issues of education, therapy, and advocacy will also present.
Klinefelter Syndrome, 47XXY, the most common of the sex chromosome variations, is said to occur in 1 out of 500 males. Estimates say that 65% of those with the disorder have not been identified. Persons with 47XXY, who are not diagnosed, fail to receive the medical care needed to offset related medical problems and health risks.
In individuals with Klinefelter, there is an extra X chromosome. Rather than the normal male chromosome pattern, 46XY, it is 47XXY. The exact cause of 47XXY is unknown.
Klinefelter Syndrome puts one at an increased risk for autoimmune disorders, type II diabetes, thyroiditis, hypothyroidism, osteoporosis, leg ulcers, depression, and dental problems. The risk of breast cancer in men with Klinefelter Syndrome is 20 times greater than in the overall male population.
In young boys, there is an increased incidence of speech delay, attention deficits, dyslexia, anxiety, depression, and gynecomastia or swelling of breast tissue during puberty.
Generally, men with Klinefelter Syndrome are infertile, but recent advances in fertility treatments have made it possible for Klinefelter men to become biological fathers.
Washington, Lincoln, and company provide profiles based upon physical observation. Outward appearances and characteristics can suggest a diagnosis of Klinefelter Syndrome, but relying solely on visible traits is a mistake. Clues are often subtle. The key to diagnosis and treatment is a complete understanding beyond what meets the eye.
For additional conference information, go to http://www. klinefelter-ohio. com/conference%20title. htm (http://www. klinefelter-ohio. com/conference%20title. htm)
About AAKSIS
The American Association for Klinefelter Syndrome Information and Support is a 501c(3) non profit organization. AAKSIS is a national volunteer association with the mission of education, support, research and understanding of 47XXY and its variants, collectively known as Klinefelter Syndrome.
Statistics suggest that there are thousands of 47XXY individuals in the United States alone. Many remain undiagnosed. Current and accurate information about 47XXY required by those confronted with a new diagnosis is often unavailable. A major goal of AAKSIS is to raise awareness of the condition among medical professionals and the general public.
AAKSIS works with its professional advisors to present an annual educational program aimed at providing the latest information and research to this community and anyone interested in learning more about the condition.
AAKSIS is governed by a Board of Directors and is assisted by a Professional Advisory Board.
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