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Quick Overview:
Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a genetic disorder that primarily affects males. It causes progressive muscle weakness and loss of function, leading to significant impacts on various functional abilities. Here are five key facts about the functional abilities impacted by Duchenne:
1. Mobility: Duchenne muscular dystrophy gradually weakens the muscles, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to walk independently. Eventually, most individuals with this condition will require assistive devices such as wheelchairs or mobility scooters.
2. Fine Motor Skills: As the disease progresses, fine motor skills become compromised. Tasks that require precision and dexterity, such as writing or buttoning clothes, become challenging for individuals with Duchenne.
3. Breathing and Respiratory Function: The weakening of respiratory muscles can lead to difficulties in breathing for individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. This may result in the need for respiratory support devices like ventilators during sleep or even throughout the day.
4. Cardiac Function: The heart muscle also weakens over time in people with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, leading to cardiac complications and potential heart failure later in life.
5. Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): Basic self-care tasks like bathing, dressing, grooming, and eating can become progressively more challenging due to muscle weakness caused by Duchenne.
FAQs:
1. What accommodations should be made at school for students with Duchenne?
– Accommodations may include wheelchair accessibility ramps or elevators,
modified classroom seating arrangements closer to exits or washrooms,
extended time for completing assignments or exams due to fatigue
associated with limited mobility.
2. Can individuals with Duchenne continue working?
– Employment options depend on individual circumstances and progression
of the disease; however, some jobs may still be possible depending on
adaptations made within the workplace environment.
3. Are there any treatments available for Duchenne?
– While there is no cure for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, various
treatments and therapies can help manage symptoms and slow down the
progression of the disease. These may include physical therapy,
corticosteroids, respiratory support, cardiac medications, and more.
4. How does Duchenne impact life expectancy?
– Life expectancy varies depending on individual factors such as overall
health and access to appropriate care. However, advancements in medical
interventions have significantly increased life expectancy compared to
previous years.
5. Are there any financial supports available for individuals with Duchenne?
– In Canada, programs like the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) and Registered
Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) provide financial assistance to eligible
individuals with disabilities including those with Duchenne muscular
dystrophy.
6. Can individuals with Duchenne participate in sports or physical activities?
– While certain high-impact activities may not be suitable due to muscle weakness,
low-impact exercises like swimming or adaptive sports can still be enjoyed by
individuals with proper supervision and adaptations.
7. What rights do individuals with Duchenne have in terms of accessibility?
– Individuals with disabilities are protected under human rights legislation that ensures equal opportunities for participation in society without discrimination based on their condition. This includes accessible transportation options, public facilities, employment accommodations, etc.
BOTTOM LINE:
Duchenne muscular dystrophy significantly impacts mobility, fine motor skills,
breathing/respiratory function, cardiac function,and activities of daily living.
Accommodations at school/workplaces are essential along with appropriate medical interventions/treatments to enhance quality of life for individuals affected by this condition.