Workshop focuses on research, rehab in muscular dystrophy

A national-level workshop on muscular dystrophy and related genetic disorders was held at the Integrated Muscular Dystrophy Rehabilitation Centre (IMDRC), Manav Mandir, in Kothon village. Organised by the Indian Association of Muscular Dystrophy (IAMD) in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the workshop focused on advancements in treatment and rehabilitation of patients suffering from muscular dystrophy.

The event concluded yesterday with participation from leading experts and medical professionals across India. Key discussions included the importance of improved diet and lifestyle for children affected by muscular dystrophy, along with research-based strategies for effective rehabilitation. Experts also explored the latest developments in treating rare forms of the disease, such as GNE myopathy, and highlighted ongoing government efforts addressing rare diseases.

IAMD president Sanjana Goyal emphasised the importance of holistic care and community support in managing this progressive disorder. She shared that a comprehensive medical-based strategy for patient rehabilitation was devised during the workshop.

Representatives from top medical institutions such as the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) branches in Delhi, Bhopal, Jodhpur, and Bilaspur; PGIMER Chandigarh and Kolkata; Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi; CHG Bangalore; Grow Lab; Ashika University; and others, participated actively.

Dr Ruchi Singh from ICMR and Dr Shaifali Gulati from AIIMS New Delhi joined the discussions online. Notable speakers included Dr Ashwin Dalal (CDFD Hyderabad), Dr Ashish Sharma (AIIMS Bilaspur), Dr Renu Suthar (PGIMER Chandigarh), Dr Lokesh Saini (AIIMS Jodhpur) and Dr Anuradha Diwakar Shenoy (AIIMS Bhopal). Other contributors were Dr Sanjiva GN (CHG Bangalore), Dr Sameer Bhatia (Sir Ganga Ram Hospital), Dr Gautam Kamila (AIIMS Delhi), Dr Vaibhav Bhandari (Swavalamban Foundation) and Murali Chetlapalli (Bharath MD Foundation).

The workshop marked a significant step in collaborative research and patient-centered care in muscular dystrophy.