Redbridge SERC

Fragile X syndrome- male and female differences

Resource type: Frequently Asked Questions  —  Date posted: January 27th, 2012   Number of views: 1668


Is there a different impact upon males and females?

Impact on males

  • The majority of males with fragile X syndrome will have significant learning difficulties.
  • The spectrum ranges from learning disabilities to severe mental retardation and autism.
  • 80% of males have learning difficulties. In addition, males have a variety of physical and behavioural characteristics.
  • However, no male has all of these characteristics.

Impact on females

  • Characteristics found in males can be found in females, however generally to a lesser degree.
  • 30% of females have significant learning disabilities; however 70% of females are less effected