May is Huntington’s Disease Awareness Month: What You Need to Know

At Clear Quality, we’re proud to support Huntington’s Disease (HD) as our chosen charity for 2025. This May, during Huntington’s Awareness Month, we’re joining thousands across the UK in raising awareness of this life-altering condition and shining a light on the need for continued research, care, and community support.

What is Huntington’s Disease?

Huntington’s disease is a rare, inherited neurodegenerative condition that gradually damages nerve cells in the brain. Over time, this leads to challenges with movement, cognitive function, and mental health. The condition is also referred to as Huntington’s chorea due to the involuntary, dance-like movements many people experience.

HD is caused by a faulty gene on chromosome 4. This gene includes a segment of DNA known as a CAG repeat. In people with Huntington’s, the number of repeats is abnormally high, leading to the production of a toxic form of a protein called huntingtin, which disrupts the normal functioning of brain cells.

Common Symptoms of Huntington’s Disease

Symptoms usually appear between the ages of 30 and 50, although juvenile and later-onset forms of the disease can occur. The condition progresses over time and symptoms can vary widely, typically falling into three categories:

• Movement difficulties: Involuntary jerking or twisting movements (chorea), muscle rigidity, balance and coordination issues, speech and swallowing problems, and slow or unusual eye movements.
• Cognitive changes: Challenges with memory, concentration, decision-making, multitasking, and planning. As the condition advances, dementia may develop.
• Psychiatric symptoms: Depression, anxiety, irritability, obsessive behaviours, impulsivity, social withdrawal, and, in some cases, psychosis.

Is There a Cure?

Currently, there is no cure for Huntington’s disease. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms to enhance quality of life. This may include medication to control movement or mood, along with support from physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech and language specialists.

Why Awareness Matters

Huntington’s disease is a deeply challenging condition. Not just for those diagnosed, but for their families and loved ones. By spreading awareness, we help reduce stigma, improve understanding, and support the incredible work being done in research, care, and advocacy.

Throughout May, we’ll be sharing more about Huntington’s, including how you can get involved and help make a difference. Together, we can support a future where better treatments and eventually a cure are within reach.