Allison Landa
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Patient, USA
Title: Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia: A Patient's Perspective, A Mother's Story
Biography:
Allison Landa is a speaker, writer, and editor in Berkeley, CA, USA. She is currently completing a book based on her experience with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia and is represented by Miriam Altshuler of DeFiore & Co. Landa’s work has been featured in The Guardian US, The Washington Post, You and Me Magazine, The Mighty, and Salon Magazine, among other venues. She earned an MFA degree from St. Mary’s College of California, is a MacDowell Colony Fellow, and has held artist residencies at Playa Summer Lake, Kimmel Harding Nelson Center for the Arts, and The Julia and David White Artists’ Colony. She lives with her husband, young son, and two manic Lab mixes.
Abstract:
Statement of the Problem: Studies suggest that psychosocial factors – in addition to physical barriers – work to impair fertility and successful childbirth in women with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia. This includes a reluctance to consult medical professionals as to the scope of the problem and possible solutions. This was the case with Allison Landa, who was not even successfully diagnosed with CAH until the age of 30 due to parental negligence and the terror of discussing her symptoms with a doctor. When successful intervention finally took place, Landa was not only able to stabilize her condition but become pregnant at the age of 40 following a short-term disruption of birth control. Her son Baz was born on Sept. 6, 2015. Landa offers a personal perspective as both a patient and an advocate for fellow CAH sufferers.
Conclusion and Significance: Increased outreach to CAH sufferers on the part of the medical community is indicated to reach those who might otherwise not be served.