In Cyprus, there are 23 boys and men living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and in the majority of cases, the care of the children is taken over by their mothers, the Association of Myopaths says in a statement, on the occasion of World Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Day on September 7.
The announcement states that this year the awareness campaign focuses on "Women with Duchenne".
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy is a rare genetic condition that affects an average of 1 in 3.500 newborn boys worldwide. It is considered the most common type of muscular dystrophy and is characterized by progressive degeneration and weakness of the muscles. Symptoms begin at an early age, usually between the ages of 3 and 5. Boys with DMD gradually lose their mobility, and in adolescence the condition affects the muscles of the heart and respiratory system.
In recent years and while research has progressed giving hope to individuals and their families, there has not yet been a holistic treatment and according to the announcement of the Association, early diagnosis from birth is extremely important in order to provide timely appropriate medication and care with the aim of delaying the progression and deterioration of the patient and improving the quality of life.
Through the Association of Myopaths, all individuals are supported with additional financial assistance for the needs that arise due to their condition and are not fully covered by the NHS, such as physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, speech therapy, purchase of medical and technical equipment, etc.
In addition, the Association of Myopaths provides support from a social worker, at an individual, family and community level, and additional financial support is provided to families facing difficulties, as the needs arising from the disability of individuals are enormous, needs that are not fully covered by the state disability benefits.
Source: KYPE