Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness. It primarily affects boys and is caused by a mutation in the dystrophin gene, which is essential for maintaining muscle cell structure. Symptoms usually appear between ages 2 and 6, including difficulty walking, frequent falls, and muscle cramps.
As the condition progresses, individuals may lose the ability to walk by their early teens and may require a wheelchair. DMD can also affect the heart and respiratory muscles, leading to serious health complications. While there is currently no cure, treatments focus on managing symptoms and improving quality of life.