Achieving Life Milestones in Duchenne/Becker Muscular Dystrophy: A Retrospective Analysis

End of Life in Boys and Young Men With Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy - The Perspective of Dying Men and Their Families: A Systematic Review and Thematic Synthesis of Qualitative Evidence

Understanding the perceptions and experiences related to the end of life (EoL) of boys and men with Duchenne muscular dystrophy from their own and/or family perspective is limited based on the available qualitative empirical studies. This systematic review was done with a thematic synthesis of qualitative evidence according to the PRISMA Statement Guidelines and the SPIDER search tool. The review included empirical, qualitative, and relevant full-text studies published in 2000-2023 in the EBSCO Discovery Service, ISI Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and ProQuest databases. From o total of eight included qualitative studies, four main key themes were identified: "Being a parent/caregiver" - psychosocial aspects, needs, and experiences; "Communication about EoL with healthcare and other professionals" - positive experiences and personal shortcomings; "Discussions about…" - the issue of EoL, dying and death; and "End of life" - end-of-life care, planning and the need for palliative care.

The Importance of Implementing a Transition Strategy for Patients with Muscular Dystrophy: From Child to Adult-Insights from a Tertiary Centre for Rare Neurological Diseases

Progress in the field of muscular dystrophy (MD) using a multidisciplinary approach based on international standards of care has led to a significant increase in the life expectancy of patients. The challenge of transitioning from pediatric to adult healthcare has been acknowledged for over a decade, yet it continues to be a last-minute concern. Currently, there is no established consensus on how to evaluate the effectiveness of the transition process. Our study aimed to identify how well patients are prepared for the transition and to determine their needs. We conducted a descriptive, cross-sectional study on 15 patients aged 14 to 21 years. The patients completed a sociodemographic and a Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire (TRAQ). We also analyzed the comorbidities of these patients. Our study revealed that only 46.7% of the patients had engaged in a conversation with a medical professional, namely, a child neurologist, about transitioning. A total of 60% of the participants expressed having confidence in their self-care ability. However, the median TRAQ score of 3.6 shows that these patients overestimate themselves. We emphasize the necessity for a slow, personalized transition led by a multidisciplinary team to ensure the continuity of state-of-the-art care from pediatric to adult healthcare services and the achievement of the highest possible quality of life for these patients.

Role Attainment in Emerging Adulthood: Subjective Evaluation by Male Adolescents and Adults with Duchenne and Becker Muscular Dystrophy

BACKGROUND

Youth with Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy (DBMD) experience challenges in attaining adult roles, which may impact quality of life. New interventions and treatments may facilitate adult role attainment through improved function. Historical data on adult role attainment is important to assess the impact of new interventions on teens and young adults with DBMD. This study assesses medical knowledge, independence and employment, and relationships among adolescents and young adults with DBMD.

METHODS

This study uses data from a 2013 Muscular Dystrophy Surveillance, Tracking, and Research Network (MD STARnet) survey on adult transition. Males with DBMD aged 16-30 years were included.

RESULTS

Sixty-five of 258 eligible males participated; we report results on 60 participants with an MD STARnet case definition of DMD or BMD. Individuals with BMD reported higher rates than those with DMD of frequently staying home without supervision (50% BMD; 14% DMD), independently performing daily physical needs (93% BMD; 7% DMD) and being employed full or part time (33% BMD; 4% DMD). Most participants understood medication and physical therapy goals; less than half indicated being often or always responsible for scheduling DMBD-related management and refilling medications. Most had not been in a romantic relationship but reported desiring such relationships.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data reinforce the impact of DMD (and to a lesser extent, BMD) on transition to adult roles. These results provide an important historical comparator for teen and adult patients who are trying new interventions and therapies. Such data are important for assessing the quality-of-life impact of new treatments and to inform support and training programs for people with DBMD as they transition to new adult roles and responsibilities.