ALL ARTICLES IN
Genetic Diseases
From the latest genetic diseases news, treatments and therapies, inspiring patient stories, to expert advice, we're here to help you live your healthiest life every day.
THE LATEST
What You Should Know About Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Learn more about this rare genetic disease that first causes symptoms in early childhood and results in muscle weakness and a shortened life span.
By Quinn PhillipsApril 23, 2023What Is Acid Sphingomyelinase Deficiency (ASMD)? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
ASMD is a rare genetic disease caused by an enzyme deficiency that allows fatty substances to build up in and damage key organs in the body.
By Brian P. DunleavyApril 18, 2023What Are the Complications of Muscular Dystrophy?
Complications of muscular dystrophy can include breathing, coughing, and swallowing difficulties, heart disease, scoliosis, and osteoporosis.
By Brian P. DunleavyApril 17, 2023What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy?
Muscle weakness, enlarged calves, and changes in the way a child walks are some of the early signs of Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
By Quinn PhillipsApril 17, 2023What Is Gaucher Disease? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
Gaucher is a genetic disease in which fatty substances build up in organs throughout the body, sometimes including the brain, causing a range of symptoms.
By Quinn PhillipsApril 10, 2023What Is Muscular Dystrophy? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and More
By Brian P. DunleavyMarch 19, 2023Parent’s Guide to Pediatric Muscular Dystrophies
A variety of kinds of muscular dystrophies affect children, and they can vary widely in symptoms and severity. Here’s a primer for parents.
By Becky UphamMarch 06, 2023What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Muscular Dystrophy?
All forms of muscular dystrophy cause progressive muscle weakness and loss, but different types of MD affect different muscles with varying severity.
By Brian P. DunleavyMarch 05, 2023What Are the Causes of Muscular Dystrophy?
All of the more than 30 types of muscular dystrophy are caused by genetic variations. But the risk of developing the condition varies.
By Brian P. DunleavyMarch 04, 2023What Is Pompe Disease? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Pompe disease is a rare, inherited genetic disorder in which the body cannot break down glycogen, leading to muscle weakness and an enlarged heart.
By Brian P. DunleavyOctober 10, 2022What Is Huntington’s Disease? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and More
Huntington’s disease is a rare genetic disorder that causes progressive deterioration of the brain cells.
By Brian P. DunleavyApril 26, 2022Does My Child Have Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy?
Learn how to recognize the symptoms of Duchenne muscular dystrophy in your child so they can get treatment.
By Erica PatinoSeptember 07, 2021Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month: September 2020
While many events will be virtual this year, the Muscular Dystrophy Association is still holding awareness and fundraising activities in September.
By Scott FontanaSeptember 25, 2020Yoga for People With Muscular Dystrophy
Anyone can benefit from the experience of mindfulness that comes from practicing yoga, and many people can improve their range of motion too.
By Becky UphamAugust 07, 2020Actor and Comedian With Muscular Dystrophy Works to Open Doors for More Disabled Stories
Steve Way, who appears regularly in the Hulu comedy series "Ramy," advocates for universal healthcare, disability rights, and more film roles for disabled actors.
By Scott FontanaAugust 07, 2020Speaking Muscular Dystrophy: A Glossary of Terms Used to Describe Symptoms, Tests, Treatments, and More
This alphabetical guide will get you up to speed on the words medical professionals use to talk about muscular dystrophy.
By Becky UphamJuly 30, 2020Your Everyday Guide to Living Well With Muscular Dystrophy
Learn what to eat, how to exercise, and what mobility devices and home modifications can help you live your best life with muscular dystrophy.
By Becky UphamJuly 23, 2020What You Need to Know About Pregnancy and Muscular Dystrophy
Women who have muscular dystrophy and women who carry a mutation that causes it can have healthy pregnancies and babies. Here’s how.
By Becky UphamJuly 13, 2020Adaptive Techniques and Devices for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Most people with Duchenne will eventually need a wheelchair, but they also may benefit from a host of other devices, including adaptive recreational equipment.
By Quinn PhillipsJuly 10, 2020Support and Resources for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Here’s where to turn for basic information, help finding or paying for medical care, or ways to connect with others living with Duchenne.
By Quinn PhillipsJuly 10, 2020