Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a rare genetic disorder that causes progressive muscle weakness and loss. It primarily affects boys and is caused by the lack of a protein called dystrophin, which helps keep muscles strong and working properly. Symptoms typically appear in early childhood, with difficulty walking, frequent falls, and trouble climbing stairs. Over time, DMD affects the heart and lungs. Although there is no cure, treatments like physical therapy, medications, and heart and breathing care can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.