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 in early childhood, 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.