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(KSL News) Hikers climbed Mt. Olympus today to raise awareness for Prader-Willi syndrome.
The genetic disorder affects appetite, growth, metabolism, cognitive function and behavior. Children with PWS think they are always hungry and often become obese.
A board member of the Utah Chapter of the Prader-Willi Syndrome Association said that those with PWS who do not receive proper treatment usually live a short life.
Sheldon Teerlink said, "Especially with individuals who are newly born. Sometimes they don't get diagnosed until they are 3 or 4 years old. There is so much that can be done for a child when they are young, that we hope we can make a difference this way."
There is no cure for the syndrome.
