About this study
Friedreich's ataxia (FA) is a rare, inherited disease that affects the nerves, spinal cord, and cerebellum of the brain. This disease causes a slow, steady loss of muscle movement and balance (ataxia), speech problems, loss of feeling, and may affect heart function.
The UNIFAI study follows people living with FA over time. We want to better understand how FA affects your body, what symptoms you have, and how your symptoms change. You will have tests once a year until the end of the study. We will do tests such as:
- Neurological exams
- Vision tests
- Hearing tests
- Walking tests
- Balance tests
We will also ask you questions about how FA affects your daily life.
Eligibility overview
- Genetic diagnosis of Friedreich’s ataxia
- Ages 21 and younger
- Parental permission and child assent
- Healthy volunteers may be accepted