COLUMBUS, Ohio-Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced Ohio’s pioneering initiative to screen all newborns for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), making it the first state in the nation to do so. This measure, included in the state’s budget bill and effective since July 2023, adds DMD to Ohio’s Newborn Screening program, joining 40 other rare medical conditions.
DMD is a severe neuromuscular disease characterized by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness, with symptom onset typically in early childhood. Although there is no cure, early detection through newborn screening enables prompt initiation of care, potentially improving outcomes. Ohio’s comprehensive screening program aims to identify approximately 35 DMD cases annually, enhancing the chances of affected children living healthier lives.
Ohio becomes First State in the Nation to Screen Newborn Babies for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
