Ministry of Health: Comprehensive system for awareness, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of Duchenne disease
AbdulKarim Al-Abdullah: The official spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, Dr. Abdullah Al-Sand, stated that the Ministry manages Duchenne muscular dystrophy through an integrated system encompassing awareness, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and continuous follow-up, tailored to the needs of each case and disease stage. He noted that the condition causes progressive muscle weakness and its signs typically appear during childhood.
Dr. Al-Sand explained, according to a press statement issued by the Ministry of Health, that World Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Day, observed annually on September 7, represents an important occasion to raise awareness about this rare genetic disorder, highlight the needs of patients and their families, and emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and comprehensive healthcare.
He outlined that the care journey begins with identifying cases through outpatient clinics and conducting necessary tests to confirm the diagnosis, followed by referral to the Kuwait Center for Genetic Diseases, located in the Ghunaima Al-Ghanim Building for Premature Infants and Genetics, to complete the assessment, prescribe appropriate treatment, and initiate specialized follow-up programs.
He pointed out that care is provided by a multidisciplinary team comprising specialists in neuromuscular diseases, physical therapy and rehabilitation, cardiology, pulmonology, orthopedics, endocrinology, bone health, nutrition, and swallowing, alongside genetic counseling and psychological, social, and educational support.
He added that care plans include a comprehensive evaluation at diagnosis and periodic follow-ups to monitor muscle strength, mobility, and treatment response, along with regular tests to assess heart health, respiratory function, bone health, growth, and nutrition. Follow-up intensity is adjusted according to the patient’s condition and needs, aiming to preserve health, mobility, and independence as much as possible.
Regarding prevention, Dr. Al-Sand clarified that the Kuwait Center for Genetic Diseases, in coordination with relevant technical departments and units in hospitals, collaborates to provide genetic counseling and testing for families at risk of transmitting the disease, including preimplantation genetic testing for medically suitable cases.
He affirmed that the State of Kuwait provides modern, approved treatments for Duchenne patients, including gene therapy for eligible cases, based on rigorous assessment and specialized follow-up, keeping pace with recent advances in the care of genetic and rare diseases.
Dr. Al-Sand emphasized that awareness, early diagnosis, and regular follow-up are fundamental pillars for improving the quality of life of patients. He added that every individual with Duchenne muscular dystrophy deserves timely access to appropriate care and that patients and their families should be supported by an integrated healthcare system throughout all stages of their treatment journey.
