09/07/2025
🌍❤️ September 7th is World Duchenne Awareness Day ❤️🌍
Today we shine a light on Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) — a rare, progressive genetic disorder that primarily affects boys and leads to severe muscle weakness and loss of mobility over time.
🧬 What to know about DMD:
Affects 1 in 5,000 live male births
Symptoms often appear between ages 3–6
Most boys with DMD become wheelchair-dependent by age 12
With advancements in care, many now live into their 30s
💡 Why today matters:
DMD is caused by mutations in the DMD gene on the X chromosome, preventing the body from making dystrophin, a protein that protects muscle cells. Without dystrophin, muscle cells weaken and break down.
🌟 There is hope:
Gene therapy and new treatments like givinostat are showing promise
Early, multidisciplinary care (physical therapy, heart and lung monitoring, respiratory support) greatly improves quality of life
Community support & advocacy from organizations like the Muscular Dystrophy Association provide resources, research, and hope for families
💛 How you can help today:
✨ Learn and share the facts about DMD
✨ Support research and advocacy groups working toward a cure
✨ Show solidarity by posting a photo, sharing this message, and spreading awareness
Together, we can create a brighter future for those living with Duchenne. 💪