January 24 is celebrated as Moebius Syndrome Awareness Day (MSAD) annually on the day Professor Paul Julius Moebius was born. He is the doctor who first diagnosed the condition in 1888 and after a few years, the day began to be observed as Moebius Syndrome Awareness Day. People on this day make efforts to raise money. Funds raised on this day goes to the people having Moebius Syndrome. There are numerous ways to raise money for the cause. People can hold fairs or simply donate some about for the Moebius syndrome patients.
For those who do not know, It is a rare neurological condition that majorly affects facial muscles that control the facial expression and eye movement. This is a condition that affects right from birth and the signs and symptoms of this condition are quite evident, right from that time. Weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles is one of the most common features of Moebius syndrome. "Weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles is one of the most common features of Moebius syndrome. Affected individuals lack facial expressions; they cannot smile, frown, or raise their eyebrows. The muscle weakness also causes problems with feeding that become apparent in early infancy," NIH description of Moebius syndrome reads.
Significance Of Moebius Syndrome Awareness Day
While there is no cure for Moebius Syndrome, a person having the rare neurological condition can lead a normal life if provided with care and support. However, it may be very expensive and taxing to take care of the patients. That's why Moebius Syndrome Awareness Day is observed with an intention to collect money and spread awareness about this rare disease. Not many people know about this rare disorder and treatment lies in support, in accordance with symptoms.
Usually, infants having Moebius Syndrome require feeding tubes or special bottles to derive nutrition. Some kids also need special surgery to correct crossed eyes and other deformities.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 24, 2020 08:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).