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A MINUTE OF HEALTH WITH CDC
Tourette Syndrome
Prevalence of Diagnosed Tourette Syndrome in Persons Aged 6-17 Years, by Parent Report — United States, 2007
June 4, 2009

This program is presented by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. CDC — safer, healthier people.

Does your child have a persistent twitch or make sudden vocal outbursts? They could be indicators of a condition known as Tourette Syndrome, or TS. TS is a neurologic disorder that begins in childhood and is characterized by involuntary, repetitive tics or twitches and random vocalizations. A recent CDC study found that in 2007, TS was diagnosed in approximately 148,000 children aged 6–17 years. TS can have an impact on a child’s academic performance, as well as relationships with others. Although there is currently no known cure, it can be treated and managed.

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For the most accurate health information, visit www.cdc.gov or call 1-800-CDC-INFO, 24/7.