Life expectancy with progeria is 15 years, Jabalpur boy turns 18
Shreyash Barmate, suffering from a rare disease progeria, celebrated his 18th birthday, which is more than the average life expectancy of 15 years for a person suffering from this genetic disease.
Shreyash Barmate from Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, who suffers from a rare genetic disease called Progeria, celebrated his 18th birthday on July 8.
This milestone is significant because the average life expectancy for people with progeria (a genetic condition in which a person ages rapidly) is just 15 years without treatment.
Shreyas said, “Every year is a gift and I am grateful for the love and support I have received from everyone around me. I plan to follow my passion for music and continue my studies.”
Progeria, also known as Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome, is an extremely rare genetic disorder that causes accelerated aging in children.
The disease affects around 350 children worldwide and without treatment, the average life expectancy is 15 years. In India, an estimated 60 children suffer from progeria, although the Progeria Research Foundation (PRF) currently knows only about 25% of this figure.
Progeria is caused by mutations in the LMNA gene, leading to the production of an abnormal protein called progerin, which affects cellular stability and function.
Children with progeria show symptoms such as delayed growth, hair loss, aged-looking skin, and joint abnormalities.
Although there is no cure for progeria, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
Lonafarnib, a farnesyltransferase inhibitor, has shown promising results in increasing life expectancy. Supportive treatments, including physical therapy and cardiac monitoring, are also important.
In India, the Progeria Research Foundation and MediaMedic Communications are working to raise awareness and provide support to affected families, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and comprehensive care.
