Disease Areas
Friedreich ataxia
Friedreich ataxia (FA)
FA is a genetic, debilitating and life-shortening neuromuscular disease, affecting approximately 15,000 individuals globally.1 Early symptoms of FA, such as progressive loss of coordination, muscle weakness and fatigue, typically appear in children and can overlap with other diseases. Many people with FA use walking aids and often require a wheelchair. Most people will need to use a wheelchair within 10 to 20 years after diagnosis. Other symptoms of FA include vision impairment, hearing loss, slurred speech, aggressive scoliosis, diabetes mellitus, and serious heart conditions.1
Our Approach
Biogen acquired Reata Pharmaceuticals in September 2023, and we are proud to continue building on the outstanding work they have done to bring a treatment option to people living with FA. We continue to leverage our rare disease expertise and capabilities to potentially help bring treatments to more people living with this devastating disease.
Stories
Michael’s story
Michael works hard to keep his body moving and functioning as well as it can so that he can continue doing what he loves – playing lawn bowls. As his FA condition progressed, Michael transitioned from sports such as golf and cricket to take on the highly competitive activity of lawn bowls.
Facts and Figures
75%
Approximately 75% of people with FA are diagnosed between five and 18 years of age.1
37y
The average life expectancy for people living with FA is 37 years.2
10-20y
Most people living with FA will need to use a wheelchair within 10-20 years of their first symptoms.3
- Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance - What is FA? (curefa.org). Accessed on: January 2026.
- Parkinson et al. (2013). Clinical features of Friedreich's ataxia: classical and atypical phenotypes. J Neurochem; 126 (1)103-17. doi: 10.1111/jnc.12317.
- Rummey, Farmer, & Lynch. (2020). Predictors of loss of ambulation in Friedreich's ataxia. EClinicalMedicine; 18:100213. doi: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2019.11.006.