Muscular Dystrophy UK spotlights muscle-wasting conditions during September awareness month

Over 110,000 people in the UK live with a muscle-wasting condition which gradually damages the way their muscles work. Over time it can limit movement and stop them from living everyday life. In some cases, lives will be cut short. 

There is currently no cure for any muscle-wasting condition. But there are now treatments available for five conditions. That can mean slowing progression, maintaining independence, or improving day-to-day quality of life. And for some conditions, there is even a choice of treatments.

Muscular Dystrophy UK believes everyone living with a muscle wasting condition deserves access to effective treatments – no matter their diagnosis, and no matter where they live. 

Ensuring no one faces their journey alone

Being diagnosed with a muscle-wasting condition can be devastating. It can be frightening, lonely, and isolating. Getting the right support at the point of diagnosis and beyond can be crucial in living well with a condition both physically and mentally.

This September, during Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month, Muscular Dystrophy UK started a pilot of a new diagnosis referral service at selected hospitals in the northwest of England. If successful, the charity hopes it will be rolled out across the UK over the coming months.

The referral service supports adults living with muscle wasting and weakening conditions, as well as parents and carers of children with a condition. It is designed to complement the clinical care and support healthcare professionals provide.

Muscular Dystrophy UK provides trusted information, practical guidance, emotional support, and someone to talk to when it matters most.

“Patients can be referred at any stage of their journey, although support is often most valuable at the point of diagnosis,” its website states. “Healthcare professionals can refer patients to us at a vital time, helping them access the information, support and connections they need.”

Learnings from the pilot will be used to inform the future development and expansion of the service. 

Find out more on the Muscular Dystrophy UK website here.

Read more about Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month on the charity’s website here.