When is Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy typically diagnosed?

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is typically diagnosed between the ages of 3 to 7 years. This is due to the fact that the first noticeable symptoms, such as difficulty in walking, frequent falls, and challenges with motor skills, generally become apparent during this developmental period. Parents often notice delays in their child's ability to perform physical activities that are typical for their age group, such as running or climbing stairs.

By the ages of 3 to 7, healthcare professionals can perform various assessments, including developmental evaluations and genetic testing, which can confirm the diagnosis of DMD. Early signs of muscle weakness can be subtle, and the age range of 3 to 7 years is when the progression of the disease begins to be more pronounced, making it a critical time for diagnosis and intervention.

Diagnosing DMD significantly earlier, such as at birth, is uncommon because symptoms do not manifest immediately. Similarly, diagnosing it during adolescence is also atypical since most children with DMD would have shown clear signs of the condition much earlier in childhood.