Mitochondrial Disease Awareness Week
September 19 - September 25, 2010 is International Mitochondrial Disease Awareness Week. During this week we renew our commitment to educate, support and advocate on behalf of mitochondrial disease patients and their families.
Boston, MA (PRWEB) September 22, 2010
The mitochondria act as the “powerhouse” of the cell to produce energy for the body to live. Mitochondrial disease (http://www. mitoaction. org) is an energy metabolism disorder that affects babies, children, and adults of all ages, races, and gender. Experts agree that at least 1 in 4000 individuals have mitochondrial disease; however, "Mito" may be under diagnosed until improvements in diagnosis and awareness occur.
Symptoms of “Mito” (http://www. mitoaction. org/mito-faq) vary in type and severity, and commonly include muscle weakness, fatigue, seizures, gastrointestinal dysfunction, developmental delay, vision and hearing loss, and organ failure. Today there is no cure for mitochondrial disease; treatment is focused on energy conservation and vitamin therapy.
Mitochondrial dysfunction has been related to other diseases including autism, diabetes, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
Join MitoAction in our mission to educate and raise awareness of this disabling disease by wearing a green awareness ribbon and taking steps for together for Mito.
On Wednesday, September 22nd, families and friends are encouraged to "Light a Light for Mito” in honor of all who are afflicted by Mito and in memory of the babies, children and adults who have lost their battle with mitochondrial disease.
MitoAction is a 501(c)3 charity formally incorporated in 2005 to provide programs and resources centered on support, education, and advocacy for patients and families affected by mitochondrial disease.
Learn more, show your support and request your green awareness ribbon and your free awareness kit at www. MitoAction. org (http://www. mitoaction. org).
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