Clérigos Tower Lights Up Green for Phelan-McDermid Syndrome

Clérigos Tower is joining the celebrations for International Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Awareness Day by lighting up green on the evening of 22 October, raising awareness of a rare genetic condition that remains largely unknown to the general public.

The initiative is part of an international movement bringing together monuments, institutions and cities around the world to raise awareness of Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS), a rare genetic condition and one of the best-known genetic causes of autism associated with intellectual and developmental difficulties.

In Portugal, only around 50 families are known to have received a diagnosis of the syndrome. However, it is estimated that more than 700 families may still be undiagnosed, facing daily challenges without a clinical explanation that would help them understand the causes of the difficulties experienced by their children and other family members.

Phelan-McDermid syndrome affects children, young people and adults. It can manifest itself through intellectual disability, absent or lost speech, epilepsy, low muscle tone and a high tolerance to pain. Although there is currently no cure or specific treatment, specialists and patient associations emphasise the importance of early diagnosis, access to appropriate therapies, inclusion and greater investment in scientific research.

By supporting this cause, Clérigos Tower aims to raise public awareness of a condition that remains unfamiliar to many and give a voice to the families living with its daily challenges.

From New York to Paris, and from Sydney to Madrid, iconic monuments are lighting up green to mark the occasion. In Portugal, Clérigos Tower is joining other national institutions in this awareness campaign, helping to spread a message of hope, visibility and inclusion.