Prognosis

Patients with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) have a shorter life expectancy than the general population, which is mainly due to complications of hyperphagia and obesity.[5][6][7][8][9][10] However, with effective weight control management, patients with PWS may live into their seventh decade.[2]

Growth hormone treatment may also prevent obesity and high proportion of fat mass.[50] Early treatment alters the natural course of PWS, and results in significantly improved cognitive and physical outcomes as well as modifying the typical facial appearance.[24][65][66]

Deaths in children with PWS are primarily due to respiratory illness.[9][59][60]

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