Corresponding Author: Nagwa A Meguid, Department of Research on Children with Special Needs, National Research Center, Tahrir St., Cairo, Egypt (Tel: +20 12 331 6372; Fax: +20 2 337 0931; +20 2 760 1877; Email: meguidna@yahoo.com)

Background: Fragile-X syndrome (FXS) is the most common inherited form of intellectual disability.  Population-based studies have suggested that the prevalence of the full mutation ranges from 1/3717 to 1/8918 Caucasian males in the general population. The present study is the output of a project aimed at identifying the prevalence rate of fragile-X males in Egypt. A two-step selection with questionnaire and photography was done by trained health visitors and social workers. 

Methods: A total of 20 500 males were screened. The original work involved inhabitants of the three different large governorates: Cairo (Shobra and Rod El-Farag districts), Giza (Dokki district) and Suez (Suez district). The participants included students of primary and high schools. According to school records, parent reports, and clinical examinations, 130 males were selected and subjected to molecular analysis after informed consent was obtained from care givers.

Results: The prevalence of FXS mutation among Egyptian males was 0.9 per 1000. Moreover, it was 6.4% among mentally subnormal males.

Conclusions: The high prevalence of FXS necessitates special education for affected children. There is currently no cure for FXS, however, an individualized treatment plan, beginning during preschool years, can help affected children to reach their full potential.

Key words: Egypt; fragile X syndrome; males; prevalence

             World J Pediatr 2007;3(4):271-275