Duchene Muscular Dystrophy

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a rare hereditary disorder caused by a genetic mutation that affects the muscles in the body. It is the most common form of muscular dystrophy, affecting approximately one in every 3,500-5,000 male births worldwide. Symptoms of the disease include progressive muscle weakness, trouble walking, loss of muscle mass, and an inability to produce certain proteins. In severe cases, patients may require the use of a wheelchair and may experience difficulty breathing or swallowing. The severity and progression of DMD varies greatly from person to person. DMD is usually diagnosed by a combination of physical examinations, blood tests, and genetic testing. Treatment for DMD focuses on managing symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease. There is currently no cure for DMD, but advances in genetic research and gene therapy offer hope for a potential cure in the future.