What is Huntington's Disease?

May is Huntington’s disease awareness month. We in the European Huntington Association would therefore like to draw attention to the disease. (For more information go to www.eurohuntington.org)

Did you know that Huntington's Disease was recognized as an inherited disorder in 1872? A 22-year-old American doctor, George Huntington, wrote a paper on the disease – giving it its name “Huntington’s chorea”.

‘Chorea’ means “to dance”. The name comes from the involuntary movements that often follows with the disease.

Today, we simply call it ‘Huntington’s disease’, because there are more to it than just movements.

In many countries, the situation for people with Huntington’s disease is gradually improving. However, it often comes with stigma. Many family members don’t talk about the disease and hide the illness.

Unfortunately, there is still no known cure for the disease, but brilliant scientists work around the clock to develop treatments.

Scientists will probably find the answer to the puzzle of Huntington’s one day. Until then we will work to spread knowledge, raise awareness and break down stigma.