World Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Day

• 09 Sep 2025

Why in News?

The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India, observes World Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Day every year on 7th September.

Key Points

• About: The UN General Assembly designated 7 September as World Duchenne Awareness Day starting in 2024.
  • The day focuses on fostering global solidarity, awareness, and empathy towards affected individuals and families.
• Theme 2025: This year’s theme, “Family: The Heart of Care,” highlights the vital role of families in providing love, support, and resilience for those with DMD, while fostering inclusion, awareness, and community support.

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)

• DMD is a rare, progressive genetic disorder caused by mutations on the X chromosome leading to the absence of dystrophin, a muscle-protecting protein.
• It is named after Dr. Duchenne de Boulogne, who detailed the condition in the 1860s.
• This primarily affects males, as they have a single X chromosome.
• Symptoms begin with difficulty in walking, followed by progressive weakening of motor functions.
• Over time, the disorder affects the ability to breathe and impacts the heart (a muscle itself).
• Dystrophin also plays a role in the brain, which can lead to learning and behavioral challenges.
• The average age of diagnosis globally is above 4 years, with a diagnostic delay of ~2.5 years despite parents noticing symptoms earlier. Some symptoms may appear in very young children.