Understanding Muscular Dystrophy (NAPSA)—If you’re like most Americans, you’re familiar with for DMD has successfully completed the second phaseofits clinical trial; the MD Cares Act, mandating further federal research on muscular dystrophy, was passed into law; and a global DMD com- the term “muscular dystrophy” but not quite sure what it involves. Knowing more about the disorder could help you or some- “Muscular dystrophy” is a munity is forming with the recent launch of the Duchenne Research orders that weaken muscles coalition of PPMD and three other phy, Duchenne muscular dystro- joined her take pride in catapult- one you know. Collaborative International, a broad term for gene-related dis- DMD-focused organizations. throughout the body. Of the more than 20 forms of muscular dystrophy (DMD) is perhaps the most Furlong and the parents who s i a affects all races and cultures; Support is available for parents whose sons have DMD at www.parentprojectmd.org or 1- boys, as it is manifested on the ‘x’ the disorder and few, if any, common. Duchenne muscular dystrophy however, it is found primarily in chromosome. DMD remains the most commonlethal genetic disorder diagnosed during childhood. To date, there is no cure. The progression of DMDleadsto many physical symptomsthat generally affect different portions of the body, including the back, legs, 800-714-KIDS. resources were available for par- ents. During the 1980s, doctors made important genetic discoveries but did not advance any treatments and had little funding to continue further DMD research. Bereft and angry, Furlong decided to get involved in her sons’ ing this disorder into the public realm. She likens DMD to where arthritis was 10 years ago: large demand for a treatment butlittle awareness or knowledge of the disorder. Althoughit will probably still take many years until there is a cure for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Furlong is certain that one day there will be an effective treatment. Develop Your DMD Awareness Diagnosis of Duchenne muscular dystrophy is often delayed feet, joints and tendons. During the teen years, those with DMD typically lose their ability to walk and, later, the use of their arms. They also develop heart and respiratory disorder. With the help of other parents affected by DMD, she piratory failure and death in their research centers and awareness campaigns. PPMDalsoinitiated a stones, such as walking community of parents and friends affected by DMD. Asthe organiza- or getting off the floor Using hands to “walk” up his the disorder. With mounting action and developments, Furlong began to feel hopeful that a cure might wide gait. complications, often leading to researly to mid-20s. Duchenne muscular dystrophy affects 20,000 children worldwide who are born with it each year, and their families and friends. One Story In 1995, Pat Furlong lost her son, Christopher, to DMD. In 1996, she lost her second son, Patrick, to the same disorder. When Christopher and Patrick were born, little was known about formed Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD) in 1994. The launch of this grassroots organization spawned lobbying efforts, national and constantly evolving tion matured, so did research on be possible. A dozen years after she founded PPMD, Furlong has seen exponen- tial progress. A potential treatment because parents and physicians do not recognize characteristic signs of muscle weakness. To identify DMD, look for a combination of these traits: Delay in reaching mile Inability to jump or run Difficulty in climbing stairs legs and complaints of “tired legs” Enlarged calf muscles Walking on his toes or with a To learn more about Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy, visit www.parentprojectmd.org or call 1-800-714-KIDS.
