Genetic Disorder Causes Premature Death

Genetic disorder causes premature death

BANGKOK: -- A rare genetic disorder in all three sons of a family in Pathum Thani Province on the outskirts of Bangkok is incurable and will result in their premature deaths before they are 20, a top government public health official, Dr. Vichai Tienthavorn, told TNA on Tuesday.

The incurable Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is caused by a bad X gene inherited from their mother.

But the Saendee’s only daughter is normal.

Men's genes consist of X-Y pairing of chromosomes, while those of women are an X-X pairing.

Weakness in leg muscles is the first symptom of the DMD, which results in a walking disability from the age of five.

The entire body then becomes disabled at around the age of 10, according to Dr. Vichai, who is the Permanent Secretary for Public Health.

Most people suffering from the DMD - also known as Pseudohypertrophic - die before they turn 20, because a dysfunctional diaphragm causes breathing problems.

The family's youngest son, now 15 years old, is to be admitted to Thammasat University Hospital, said Dr. Vichai.

--TNA 2005-02-16