Muscular dystrophy is the collective name for a range of neuromuscular conditions, which are characterized by the progressive weakening and wasting of the muscles. It can affect adults and children. Some forms arise at birth or in childhood, others may not manifest themselves until later in life. Each type of muscular dystrophy arises from a different genetic mutation or deletion which is inherited from one or both parents, or is due to a spontaneous mutation. This means that there are many families who have more than one member with the condition. 

There is no cure for muscular dystrophy but there have been huge advances in increasing the quality of life for people with the condition and scientists around the world are working hard to develop new treatments.

The conditions listed here are covered by MDI. If you are in any doubt over whether MDI covers the condition you or someone you know has, please do not hesitate to contact the Information Officer by emailing info@mdi.ie or telephoning the Head Office on 01 8721501