Prader-Willi syndrome is characterized by which of the following?

Prader-Willi syndrome is indeed characterized by a chronic feeling of hunger that leads to obesity. This syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by the loss of function of specific genes on chromosome 15. One of the hallmark symptoms is hyperphagia, which is an insatiable appetite resulting from the dysfunction of the hypothalamus—the brain region responsible for regulating hunger.

Individuals with Prader-Willi syndrome often experience not only constant hunger but also other related issues such as developmental delays and behavioral challenges. Their inability to control their eating can result in significant weight gain and related health complications if not managed properly.

This characteristic of persistent hunger is crucial to understanding the challenges faced by individuals with this syndrome, as it often requires specialized interventions and support to manage dietary intake and health outcomes effectively.