A genetically inherited condition caused by the inability to produce the enzyme hexosaminidase A. This results in progressively increased fluid pressure on the brain and the subsequent degeneration of the brain and nervous system beginning about 6 months of age and inevitably resulting in death usually by age 2-3. The gene responsible for Tay-Sachs Disease is recessive. It has been most common among the descendents of Eastern European Jews (Ashkenazi Jews).