Usher Syndrome is a rare genetic condition. There are currently 3 types of Usher Syndrome. Type 1, Type 2 and Type 3.
Usher syndrome causes dual sensory loss. A combination of hearing and vision loss. In some cases it can affect a person’s balance.
Vision loss in people diagnosed with Usher Syndrome is caused by Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) which is a disease of the retina cells in the back of the eye, which affect light sensitivity. RP tends to start with night blindness and go on to cause tunnel vision.
The condition is categorised into three subtypes depending on the severity of hearing loss and whether there are any difficulties with balancing. The three subtypes are:
With Usher syndrome type 1, hearing loss tends to occur from birth. It is usually severe – profound. Vision loss tends to begin around the age of 10 and balance problems can occur from birth.Â
In Usher Syndrome Type 2, hearing loss tends to occur from birth. It is usually moderate – severe. Vision loss usually begins in mid- late teens. With Usher Syndrome Type 2 there are no balance problems.Â
In Usher Syndrome Type 3, the hearing loss is progressive. It tends to be normal at birth. Vision loss usually begins mid-to-late teens. Balance problems with Usher Type 3 are variable.Â
An impactful information film about Usher Syndrome made by Havas Lynx for Cure Usher to globally raise awareness.
We will let the video do the talking.