Muscular Dystrophy

The muscular dystrophies are a group of genetic diseases that severely affect children and adults. For sufferers and their family, the illness presents enormous physical and psychological challenges. Written specifically for people with muscular dystrophy and their families, this new edition of Muscular dystrophy: the facts answers many of the questions asked about how and why it occurs, and how it will affect the life of a recently diagnosed child. Throughout, the different types of muscular dystrophy are described with a minimum of technical jargon. Questions relating to exercise, physiotherapy, surgery, and the emotional effects of the diseases are answered, and advice given on the problems of schooling and choice of career. Since publication of the 1st edition, the genes for almost all the different types of dystrophy have been identified, enabling prevention through genetic counselling, and relieving some of the worry for affected families. Drawn from his many years of experience treating patients, Professor Emery provides authoritative, yet compassionate advice for people living with this illness.
From reviews of 1st edition 'A family visiting a genetic counsellor readied with information from this book would be well versed in the scope of concerns that can arise as families live with MD. I applaud the effort to make this care package of information available to families.' The American Journal of Human Genetics.