At a glance
CDC’s National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities is committed to raising awareness about Tourette syndrome (TS) and to improving the education of those who care for and work with people living with TS. In doing so, CDC supports several education activities.
Education and training
Diagnosis and treatment of people with Tourette syndrome (TS) can be improved when healthcare providers and educators have up-to-date and accurate information about this disorder. Education and training for these professionals will help them to better identify, diagnose, and refer for treatment people with TS.
Educating the community (for example, friends and family, educators, and coworkers) about TS can increase understanding of the symptoms, reduce teasing, and decrease stress for people living with TS. People with TS cannot help having tics, and are not being disruptive on purpose. When others understand these facts, people with TS might receive more support, which might help lessen some tic symptoms.
Tourette Health and Education Program
CDC’s National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities has partnered with the Tourette Association of America to provide educational events and online support groups through the Tourette Health and Education Program (THEP). The program educates physicians, allied professionals, and school personnel, as well as those who have TS, their families, and the general public about TS. THEP provides accurate, up-to-date, science-based information about the recognition, diagnosis, and treatment of TS.
The goal of this outreach is to increase awareness and provide information that will help people with TS receive needed health services, be more accepted by those around them, and have the opportunity to succeed in school and work.
The CDC-Tourette Association partnership also has a special focus on underserved communities, providing educational programs in all geographic areas and reaching out to organizations that serve communities at risk for health disparities.
The Tourette Health and Education Program has conducted more than 1,350 educational events for professionals and community members in all 50 states in the United States, as well as in Washington, DC, the US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, and Canada. Additionally, more than 50 webinars have been held virtually, with no state affiliation.