Constant Hunger in Kids Remains a Mystery

A University of Alberta researcher is looking to solve the puzzle as to why kids with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) are constantly hungry.

PWS is a key cause of childhood obesity. It is a genetic disorder leading to the imbalance of the hormone gherkin. Kids affected by this disorder never know when they are full.

"They might take food from their sibling's plate - I actually had a patient who ordered pizza to their neighbour's house to get additional food," said Andrea Haqq, associate professor of pediatrics. "They're very genius in trying to come up with ways to seek out food."

There is no cure for PWS and kids find it impossible to control their hunger as they grow older. Haqq has designed a study to analyze kids aged 5-17 who have Prader-Willi syndrome. She hopes to be able to design diets that can help these kids.

If you know a child who you think might have Prader-Willi Syndrome, contact:
Michelle Mackenzie, PhD
Research Coordinator
Department of Pediatrics
University of Alberta
Phone: 780-407-7241
Email: michelle.mackenzie@ualberta.ca




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