Huntington’s gene 10 times as common as believed

The gene that causes Huntington’s disease could affect more than ten times as many people as previously thought.

A study, carried out by universities including the University of Aberdeen, has shown that the gene linked to the brain disorder is relatively common in the general population, with up to one in 400 people at risk of developing the condition. It was previously thought Huntington’s affected about one in 5,000 of the population.

Huntington’s is an incurable condition that starts between the ages of 35 and 45, and sees changes to muscle control that erode mobility and the ability to talk. John Eden of the Scottish Huntington’s Association, said: “These results may mean we are seriously underestimating the number of elderly patients with the condition.”