National MPS Society Celebrates MPS Awareness Day In an effort to increase awareness and diagnosis of a group of seven genetic diseases whose symptoms may be subtle and often unrecognized, the National MPS Society today announced Join the Search for Patients with MPS, a nationwide pursuit to identify children with Mucopolysaccharidoses (mew-ko-poly-sak-a-ride-dos-es). Commonly referred to as MPS, these diseases are caused by enzyme deficiencies that prevent the body from breaking down and recycling materials in cells which can result in stunted growth, stiff joints, speech and hearing impairment, breathing problems, mental retardation and a dramatically shortened life span. Join the Search for MPS Patients kicks off today in conjunction with National MPS Awareness Day. To commemorate this nationwide call for attention and diagnosis, patients, families and genetic experts from across the country will convene in New York City to unveil a unique photo exhibit featuring individuals with MPS and preside over the closing bell ceremony at the NASDAQ Stock Market. "Early diagnosis and intervention are critical for improved outcomes, yet there often is significant delay in proper care because initial symptoms, such as recurrent ear infections, delayed growth or respiratory problems may be simply disregarded as common childhood medical problems," said Dr. Gregory M. Pastores, Director, Neurogenetics Unit at New York University NYU School of Medicine . " With emerging research underway and treatments currently available for some forms of MPS, early diagnosis can help minimize potentially life-threatening complications and improve patients' quality of life." To expedite the search, the National MPS Society has created a patient photo exhibit and website to put a face on all seven forms of the disease, and to celebrate the individuality of those affected by MPS and related diseases. The photo exhibit will travel across the country to various public venues, starting with NYU. Find out more by logging on to www.jointhesearch.org. (c) Copyright 2006, The Nasdaq Stock Market, Inc. Reprinted with permission.