Issue Position: Fragile X Gene

Issue Position

Fragile X Gene

On July 20th, Representative Planas was honored by the National Fragile X Foundation for his leadership to bring awareness of Fragile X. The Fragile X gene is the leading genetic cause of autism and mental retardation. I feel this is an issue that has not been given proper attention. This is why I advocated for funds which the Legislature appropriated towards creating a program at Jackson Memorial Hospital to screen newborns for Fragile X Syndrome. It is important that our newborns, infants and children be given every opportunity to lead a healthy and fruitful life, and I hope this new program will go a long way towards helping those who are afflicted.

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