Huntington's Disease is a hereditary degenerative brain disorder which leads to both physical and mental disabilities. Symptoms usually appear between the ages of 30 and 50, but the disease may strike those as young as two or as old as 80.
What are the early symptoms of Huntington’s Disease?
The initial symptomsof Huntington’s Disease may include difficulty in concentration, depression, or twitching, but each person is affected differently and early symptoms vary from person to person.
Is there a test that can determine if I have Huntington's Disease?
Yes, testing is available to determine whether a person has the gene for Huntington's Disease. There are three categories of testing: pre-symptomatic, confirmatory, and prenatal testing. The decision about whether or not to be tested for Huntington's Disease is one which requires careful consideration. The Huntington's Disease Family Service Center performs testing for the presence of the Huntington's Disease gene using a protocol that will assist the individual in deciding if this test is right for him or her.
What are the Clinic locations?
There are currently three locations in New Jersey :
North - UMDNJ New Jersey Medical School 183 South Orange Ave.
Newark , NJ 07101 (973) 972-2977
Central - University Behavioral Health Care 671 Hoes Lane Piscataway , NJ 08855 (732) 235-4402
South - Center for Aging 42 E. Laurel Road Stratford , NJ 08084 (856) 566-6843
What other services does the Clinic provide?
All clinics provide medical treatment services including specialty care by neurologists, psychiatrists, neuropsychological testing, genetic testing and counseling, social services, individual and family counseling, and patient advocacy. The Center also provides consultation and education to community health care providers, organizations, and other interested parties. In addition, the Center offers support groups for caregivers and Huntington's Disease affected patients.
Will my health insurance cover the cost of services at the Clinic?
The Huntington's Disease Family Service Center accepts most health insurance plans. In addition, it offers sliding scale and payment plans for professional services. The social services and counseling services are provided free of charge.
How can I get more information on Huntington's Disease, the support groups, or about making an appointment at the Huntington's Disease Family Service Center?
To speak with someone about Huntington's Disease or the Clinic, contact the program Coordinator, Christine Hogan, LCSW, at (732) 235-5993.
For specific questions regarding pre-symptomatic testing and/or prenatal testing, contact Michael K. McCormack, PhD., Director, at (732) 235-5992.
What other websites provide information on Huntington’s Disease?
Links to non-State and Federal organizations are provided solely as a service to our users. Links do not constitute an endorsement of any organization by the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) or New Jersey State Government, and none should be inferred. The NJDOH is not responsible for the content of the individual organization Web pages found at these links.
Janice D. Ibezim, RNC, CPM, MPA
Department of Health/Division of Family Health Services
Program Management Officer (PMO)
Office of Cancer Control (OCCP) Program
New Jersey Cancer Early Education Detection (NJCEED) Program
New Jersey Commission on Cancer Research
(609) 292-6586
Department of Health P. O. Box 360,
Trenton, NJ 08625-0360 Our Locations
