Q: Is dyslexia hereditary? – P. Lee
A: The National Center for Learning Disabilities describes dyslexia as a specific learning disability in reading that is neurological and often genetic. It is due to a defect within the brain that inhibits its ability to process symbols accurately. It is the most common reading disability affecting 1 out of 5 people. It’s important to know that dyslexia in NOT the result of a child being “lazy” or lacking intelligence.
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The exact causes are still unknown, but research shows a likely genetic link. A study from researchers at the Yale School of Medicine found the DCDC2 gene was linked to dyslexia. Children with dyslexia usually have an immediate family member who also has this condition.
Signs of dyslexia can include difficulty:
- learning letters and sounds
- memorizing number facts
- spelling
- reading
- organizing spoken and written language
- meet key learning milestones
The only way to confirm dyslexia is to have formal testing and evaluation from a trained professional.
Visit the BlackDoctor.org Brain and Nervous System center for more articles.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ‘Ask Dr. Renee’. Follow me on Twitter @AskDrRenee and on my website.
