What is Becker?
Becker muscular dystrophy is a type of dystrophinopathy, a group of conditions caused by variants (or changes) in the DMD gene. These changes can impact the body’s ability to produce dystrophin. With no or little dystrophin, muscles are not able to function or repair themselves properly. In Becker muscular dystrophy, dystrophin is made, but not in the normal form or amount. It is a progressive disorder that causes muscles to become weaker over time until it affects the whole body. Becker is a genetic condition, usually inherited, but sometimes happens spontaneously when a change in the DMD gene occurs for the first time.
Becker progresses differently for every person. Even siblings with the same variant may have a very different progression of symptoms. The progression of symptoms of dystrophinopathy are on a spectrum, spanning from late onset/very mild symptoms to early onset/severe symptoms, and many presentations in between. Regular visits with a multidisciplinary neuromuscular team help individuals and families monitor the progression of this disease, and how it can best be treated along the way.
While there is currently no cure for Becker, there is hope – perhaps more now than ever before. PPMD has been at the forefront of advancements in care and treatments for dystrophinopathy. We take a cutting-edge approach to accelerate finding treatments for every single person impacted by the disease. You can find more support and community resources here.
It’s important to note that PPMD’s mission and work extends across the dystrophinopathy spectrum, including Duchenne, Becker and carriers. However, for simplicity you may see references to Duchenne throughout our site and resources. The information is largely applicable to all dystrophinopathies depending on symptoms and progression. If you are ever unsure or have questions, please reach out to careteam@parentprojectmd.org.
Becker-specific Resources:
- Emergency Wallet Card
- Emergency Wheelchair Card
- Becker School Emergency Letter
- Dystrophinopathy File of Life
Webinar Recording: Neuromuscular Care and Genetic Considerations in Becker
PPMD’s work to expand care and resources for individuals and families living with Becker muscular dystrophy is made possible in part through the support of Edgewise Therapeutics.
