PTC Therapeutics recently opened applications for the seventh annual STRIVE Awards program for Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Duchenne muscular dystrophy is the most common and most severe form of muscular dystrophy, caused mutations in the DMD gene that leads to loss of the protein dystrophin and progressive muscle loss. Symptoms of muscle loss begin to appear before the age of 6 years and most children with this disease will be wheelchair dependent by their early teens. Fortunately, approved treatments are available, including exon-skipping therapies for specific subpopulations of the Duchenne population, and many more therapies are in development.
The Strategies to Realize Innovation, Vision, and Empowerment (STRIVE) Awards began in 2015. The goal of this program is to support initiatives that benefit the Duchenne community through awareness, diagnosis, and education. Each year, a panel of experts judge entries based on their innovation, vision, and empowerment. Winning programs have improved access to diagnosis and treatment; created career opportunities for adults with Duchenne; raised awareness of Duchenne in educational, public and healthcare settings; and provided emotional and physical support to caregivers. For details about previous winners, go here.
This year, a new entry category was introduced dedicated to supporting programs that focus on the transition of those living with Duchenne from adolescence to adulthood. This was inspired by the recent improvements in cardiac and respiratory care which have increased life expectancy for many with Duchenne.
The deadline for submissions is March 15, and eligible organizations can submit their proposals through an application form available here. Winners will be announced in September 2021.
For more information about Duchenne muscular dystrophy and other rare musculoskeletal diseases, visit checkrare.com/diseases/musculoskeletal