KUWAIT CITY, Sept 7: On Saturday, the World Health Organization (WHO) praised Kuwait for its efforts to raise awareness about Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) through various platforms, aiming to advance treatment and care for the genetic condition. WHO Representative to Kuwait, Dr. Asad Hafeez, issued the statement on the occasion of World Duchenne Awareness Day, observed annually on September 7.

The statement highlighted Kuwait's significant role in promoting World Duchenne Awareness Day across different forums, including the United Nations in New York. These efforts are intended to enhance understanding of rare genetic disorders, promote early diagnosis, and support advancements in treatment and care. Dr. Hafeez emphasized that Kuwait's contributions extend beyond national borders, aligning with the international community's efforts to improve the lives of individuals affected by DMD and similar genetic disorders, which, while rare, have a profound impact on quality of life and impose substantial health costs.

Dr. Hafeez described World Duchenne Awareness Day as a crucial opportunity to amplify the voices of those affected by the disease. He reaffirmed WHO's commitment to collaborating with Kuwait and other member states to improve healthcare access, early diagnosis, and therapeutic support, ensuring that affected families receive the necessary care and support.

The theme for this year's awareness day, "Raise Your Voice for Duchenne," underscores the importance of advocating for individuals with Duchenne and other dystrophin diseases, calling for action to defend their rights and ensure they receive proper inclusion and care.

The United Nations and the WHO continue to work with member states to raise awareness, provide best practice guidelines, and integrate the needs of vulnerable populations into health and non-health policies through ongoing collective action and commitment.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a genetic disorder transmitted from generation to generation, predominantly affecting males. It occurs in approximately 1 in every 3,500 live births, with global estimates of affected individuals potentially reaching up to half a million cases.