Huntington’s disease (HD) is a genetic neurodegenerative disease that results in brain cell death. As the brain cells die, people with HD can experience:

• Involuntary movements,
• Impaired physical coordination and balance
• Loss of mental flexibility
• Difficulty with thinking skills and processes
• Attention and memory difficulties
• Difficulties with swallowing
• Impaired verbal communication
• Problems in planning, organising and executing task
• Mood disorders such as depression and anxiety
• Personality changes

HD symptomology as it progresses can be unpredictable and as such a person can present with a combination of any of the above outlined symptoms. Following the onset of symptoms the average life expectancy is 15-25 years.

In Victoria, it is estimated that there are currently more than 400 families who have a member affected by HD. It is further estimated that over 2,500 people, including children are at risk of inheriting the disease and more than 3,000 people are affected - this includes carers, family members and their support networks.

Find out more about HD

• What is HD
• Who is Affected?
• HD and the Brain
• More about HD