CHICAGO--The Academy of General Dentistry recently made a donation to benefit the National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias in conjunction with its 25th Anniversary Gala on July 26 in St. Louis, Mo.
The NFED depends on the generosity of donors such as the AGD to fund
services to families, public awareness efforts and search for a cure. The AGD's donation will help the NFED continue to assist in detecting ectodermal
dysplasias and provide support and information for those affected by it.
The ectodermal dysplasia syndromes are a group of about 150 genetic disorders that affect the ectoderm, which is the outer layer of tissue in a developing baby. ED syndromes affect both males and females of all races and ethnic groups. The ectoderm contributes to the formation of many parts of the body, including the skin, sweat glands, hair, teeth, and nails.
When a child has at least two types of abnormal ectodermal feature--for example, malformed teeth and extremely sparse hair--the child is identified as being affected by an ED syndrome. Physical symptoms can range from mild to
extremely severe.
"We extend our hopes and prayers to everyone whose lives are touched by this
disease, the AGD will continue to collect and direct donations to the NFED,"
said AGD President Bruce DeGinder, DDS, MAGD.
The NFED was founded to aide in the identification of individuals affected and to offer support to their families and care providers. Foundation efforts include a medical guide series, treatment funds, educational meetings for families and health care professionals, family support networks, physician referrals, national advocacy, a newsletter, scholarships and a research program.
For more information on the NFED, visit http://www.nfed.org/.
