A person with Prader-Willi syndrome is primarily driven by what uncontrollable urge?

Individuals with Prader-Willi syndrome experience an intense, uncontrollable urge to eat. This condition is characterized by a constant sensation of hunger, often leading to overeating and obesity if not managed appropriately. The underlying cause of this drive is related to a dysfunction in the hypothalamus, which plays a significant role in regulating hunger and satiety. As a result, people with Prader-Willi syndrome may struggle with impulse control when it comes to food, resulting in a lifelong challenge of managing their eating behaviors. This characteristic is a defining feature of the syndrome and essential for caregivers and health professionals to understand in order to provide proper support and interventions.