CHARGE

CHARGE is a rare and very challenging condition that affects children, young people and adults. People who have CHARGE often have to cope with a wide range of physical difficulties, including sight and hearing problems.

CHARGE can affect different parts of the body, but the most common problems are with the eyes, ears, heart and nasal passages, and with feeding and growth. The condition and its severity vary from person to person. It is believed to be a genetic condition, though research into its causes, diagnosis and treatment are ongoing.

The word CHARGE is made up from the initial letters of some of the most common features seen in this condition:

C Coloboma (eye defects)
H Heart defects
A Choanal Atresia (nasal blockage)
R Retardation of growth and developmental delay
G Genitalia deficiencies (small penis, undescended testicles)
E Ear anomalies

As a result of the combination of problems that the condition may cause, children with CHARGE commonly have delays in development.