Synonyms: FA | FRDA
Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) is an inherited neurodegenerative disorder classically characterized by progressive gait and limb ataxia dysarthria dysphagia oculomotor dysfunction loss of deep tendon reflexes pyramidal tract signs scoliosis and in some cardiomyopathy diabetes mellitus visual loss and defective hearing.
Data from Orphanet are used to provide information on a disease's name, synonym(s), and overview. Reference: Access aggregated data from Orphanet at Orphadata. Orphadata: Free access data from Orphanet. © INSERM 1999. Available on http://www.orphadata.org. Data version April 2026
Newly diagnosed with
Friedreich ataxia?
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Advocacy Organizations
Ataxia and me
To relieve the needs of sufferers of Ataxia or other neurological disorders, their families and carers for the public benefit by providing patient led support and by raising awareness of such conditions."
Charcot-Marie-Tooth Association
Our mission … to support the development of new treatments for CMT, to improve the quality of life for people with CMT, and, ultimately, to find a cure. Our vision … a world without CMT. CMTA was started by patients in 1986, and to this day is powered by a community of patients who are engaged in helping carry out and support our mission.
Childhood Dementia Initiative
Our vision is for sustainable global health solutions for childhood dementia. This will be achieved through the following outcomes: - Treatments and cures available for children with dementia - Access to equitable and quality care for children with dementia and their families - Childhood dementia is a global health policy priority.
Ducks For Dementia
Ducks For Dementia, founded on the profound compassion and vision of a young boy named David, aims to bring solace and understanding to individuals with dementia and their families. Our mission is rooted in the distribution of toy ducks as symbols of comfort, which serve not only as therapeutic aids but also as beacons of joy and companionship for those navigating the complexities of dementia.
Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA)
The Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA) is a national, public, 501(c)(3), non-profit, organization dedicated to the pursuit of scientific research leading to treatments and a cure for Friedreich’s ataxia.
Genetic Support Network of Victoria
The Genetic Support Network of Victoria is an organisation that supports people living with genetic, undiagnosed and rare conditions and those who support them including community and families, patient support organisations, health professionals and industry. Our vision is our community flourishing and living their best lives.
Heart of a Giant Foundation
The mission of the HGF is to achieve better health outcomes for heart diseases and related chronic health conditions in our communities and enhance the quality of life through health education, care support, and connection to community resources.
HeartCharged
Ending preventable deaths from undiagnosed heart conditions and sudden cardiac arrest, especially in young people, and providing patient-to-patient support.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association
Providing support, advocacy, and education to patients, families, the medical community, and the public about hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and all thick heart muscle disorders, while supporting research and fostering the development of treatments.
Jett Foundation
Jett Foundation empowers people and families impacted by Duchenne muscular dystrophy through the development of transformative programming, educational opportunities, and ongoing support for every stage of a Duchenne journey.
KIF1A.ORG
KIF1A.ORG is a global community dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by KIF1A Associated Neurological Disorder (KAND) and accelerating research to find a cure.
Lenny’s Cure for CONDSIAS
Our goal is to foster connection, build awareness, advance research and find a cure for CONDSIAS.
National Ataxia Foundation
To accelerate the development of treatments and a cure while working to improve the lives of those living with Ataxia.
RareDNA Foundation
Dedicated to improving outcomes for individuals and families affected by rare DNA heart mutations by advancing awareness, access and action. We increase awareness among medical professionals and the public, provide education and resources on diagnosis and treatment, support scientific research, and advocate for faster diagnostic pathways, giving families the knowledge and care they need.
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Clinical Trials
For a list of clinical trials in this disease area, please click here.