Prader Willi Syndrome Law and Legal Definition
Prader–Willi Syndrome (PWS) is a rare genetic disorder that is usually caused by chromosomal change, resulting in lifelong functional and cognitive impairments and life threatening obesity. PWS is found both in men and women, equally across all races.
In Virginia, the state department of rehabilitative services provides rehabilitative services to persons with functional and central nervous system disabilities. Prader-Willi syndrome is classified as a functional and central nervous system disability.
The following is an example of a state statute (Florida) defining the term.
Pursuant to Fla. Stat. § 393.063, "Prader-Willi syndrome" means an inherited condition typified by neonatal hypotonia with failure to thrive, hyperphagia or an excessive drive to eat which leads to obesity usually at 18 to 36 months of age, mild to moderate mental retardation, hypogonadism, short stature, mild facial dysmorphism, and a characteristic neurobehavior.
