World Duchenne Awareness Day

World Duchenne Awareness Day was initiated by the Duchenne World Organization to educate the public about this disease. Another name for the disease is muscular dystrophy. It turns out that people know very little about this disease. The cause of this pathology is mutations in the dystrophin genes. As a result, patients often cannot study effectively, are prone to injuries, and exhibit a characteristic gait. In everyday life, these individuals face significant challenges, so it is crucial to understand how to assist them and make their lives easier.

History

The disease is named after the doctor who first described the pathology, Dr. Duchenne de Boulogne. Another well-known name for this condition is DMD. Duchenne also discovered the relationship between muscular dystrophy and brain damage. However, the cause of muscular dystrophy was only identified a hundred years later by doctors Eric Hoffman and Louis Kunkel. They proved that muscular dystrophy was caused by mutations in the dystrophin gene.

Interesting Facts

• Initially, there was no treatment for muscular dystrophy patients, so they were sent home for their relatives to care for them.
• Sometimes non-invasive ventilation is used, which helps to prolong the life of the patient.
• Muscular dystrophy is a dangerous genetic disease. It is important that everyone is aware of this and understands the necessary responses.
• Why September 7th? The Duchenne gene contains 79 exons, which is why the dates 7 and 9 are significant.
• In DMD, specific proteins are missing both from the muscles and the brain.

How to take part

Learn more about the disease, why it occurs, what happens in the body, and how to help patients. Try to share information on social networks and spread awareness—this might help someone. Today, you can express your support online by placing thematic banners and posting press releases. Become a volunteer and help patients.

When is World Duchenne Awareness Day in 2024?

World Duchenne Awareness Day is observed on September 7 each year.

Observations