Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Life Expectancy Soars to 28 Years
Life expectancy for individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) has significantly advanced due to improvements in treatment. People with DMD, a genetic disorder causing progressive muscle weakness, are now living longer, healthier lives.
Historically, life expectancy for those born with DMD was around 19 years. However, thanks to effective treatments, the median life expectancy has risen to approximately 28 years for those born after 1990. Many now live into their 20s, 30s, or even 40s. Key to this improvement is the use of corticosteroids and targeted disease-modifying therapies.
These treatments help manage symptoms and complications across a person's lifespan. For instance, AGAMREE® (Vamorolon), approved in Canada for patients aged 4 and older, offers an alternative to traditional corticosteroids, combining efficacy with a potentially better safety profile. Cardiac care, such as using ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers, also plays a crucial role by delaying or reducing the risk of life-threatening heart complications.
The specific gene change in DMD can affect treatment options and the risk of heart complications. Ventilatory support can further increase life expectancy, with some individuals living into their 40s or longer. With continued advancements in treatment, the future for people with DMD looks brighter than ever.
