Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: everyone who lost the ability to walk had low Vitamin D (China)

Investigation of Walking Ability in 161 Patients With Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Clin Pediatr (Phila). 2026 doi: 10.1177/00099228261429136 PDF behind paywall

We aimed to identify modifiable risk factors affecting ambulation in Chinese children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) by analyzing follow-up data from 161 patients with DMD. Continuous variables were compared using t-test or the Wilcoxon rank-sum test (for non-normally distributed variables). Cox regression determined factors influencing walking ability, and the log-rank test compared retention of walking ability between school-going and non-school-going patients. Hormone therapy (HR 3.72; P = .033), school attendance (HR 5.20; P = .010), and Disability and Social Support Rating Scale scores (HR 1.16; P = .021) significantly predicted loss of ambulation. Vitamin D levels were lower in ambulatory children with DMD who lost the ability to walk (F = 26.246, P = .000). Hormone therapy improved the 10-m walking time, while rehabilitation influenced the decumbent position and walking times. Early hormone therapy combined with consistent rehabilitation and school engagement is recommended for preserving ambulation.

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