Which group has the highest risk of developing premature ovarian failure and ataxia among fragile X premutation carriers?

Women in their 40s to 50s who are fragile X premutation carriers have the highest risk of developing premature ovarian failure and ataxia. The fragile X premutation is associated with a variety of health issues, particularly in women, as they age.

Premature ovarian failure is more prevalent in this age group due to the biological changes occurring during perimenopause and menopause. Studies have shown that women who carry the fragile X premutation may experience early depletion of ovarian follicles, leading to premature menopause. As they reach their 40s and into their 50s, the risk of ovarian dysfunction increases significantly compared to younger women.

Additionally, ataxia, a neurological symptom that may involve balance and coordination issues, becomes more prominent with age among fragile X carriers. This connection between age and the expression of symptoms like ataxia is particularly noted in individuals in their middle age.

Thus, it is the combination of these age-related physiological changes and the specific risks associated with the fragile X premutation that explains why women aged 40 to 50 are at the highest risk for these conditions.