September is Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month

Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month shines a light on a group of genetic conditions that affect 250,000 Americans.

September 1, 2026
Events, September

While muscular dystrophy is a relatively rare condition, more than a quarter of a million people in the U.S. are living with muscular dystrophy or a related neuromuscular disorder — and countless more are caregivers, family members, or direct support professionals.

Whether you support someone with a neuromuscular condition or simply want to be a better ally, this month is a time to learn, share, and get involved. The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) has designated September as Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month.

In this article, we’ll explore the history of Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month and highlight meaningful ways you can take part in this event. But first, let’s take a closer look at what muscular dystrophy is.

What is muscular dystrophy?

Muscular dystrophy is a group of genetic disorders that cause progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass. This group includes many different conditions including Duchenne, Becker, myotonic, and limb-girdle muscular dystrophies, each affecting different muscles and showing up at different ages.

Over time, these conditions can make everyday movements and activities more challenging. While there is no cure for muscular dystrophy at this time, treatments exist that can help people maintain their strength and mobility for longer.

History of Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month

The story of Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month began in the 1940s, when researchers began studying the group of conditions we now call muscular dystrophies. At the time, little was known about these conditions, and even less support existed for those living with them.

By the 1950s, muscular dystrophy entered the public eye — thanks in large part entertainers Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis. Their annual telethons raised millions of dollars and brought national attention to the cause.

The 1980s ushered in a new era of gene therapy research, and by 1992 scientists had identified the gene responsible for myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1). Just a few years later, in 1995, the FDA approved riluzole — the first-ever drug to treat neuromuscular disorder ALS. This milestone showed how far science had come, and how critical awareness efforts were.

Since then, more treatments have emerged, driven by the work of researchers, advocates, and people living with muscular dystrophy. Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month is all about celebrating this progress and keeping the momentum going.

Key observances throughout the month include:

September 7: World Duchenne Awareness Day

September 15: Myotonic Dystrophy Awareness Day

September 30: Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Day

5 ways to recognize Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month

1. Share facts and stats on social media

From early research breakthroughs to new treatment approvals, it all starts with awareness. Sharing facts, statistics, and stories on social media platforms is a simple way to shine a spotlight on the need for more research and funding. Be sure to use the hashtag #MuscularDystrophyAwarenessMonth to help your posts reach a larger audience.

2. Wear green and spread the word

Did you know lime green is the official color of Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Month? Encourage your team or organization to wear green on a designated day in September. Then, take a group photo and pair it with a social post to show your support.

3. Host a movie screening

Just like early telethons brought muscular dystrophy into living rooms across the country, movies are a powerful way to raise awareness and spark discussion. Consider hosting a screening of Good Bad Things, an award-winning film about a young man navigating muscular dystrophy and online dating. It’s a moving, relatable story about finding love and the courage to take risks.

4. Join or organize a gaming tournament

Gaming is a fun and inclusive way to bring people together. The Muscular Dystrophy Association’s MDA Let’s Play initiative connects gamers with disabilities, raises awareness, and builds community. You can watch, play, or even host a virtual tournament and dedicate it to the cause.

5. Advocate for accessible voting

Voting is a fundamental right, but many people with disabilities still face barriers to casting their ballot. Help ensure that individuals with neuromuscular conditions and other disabilities can participate fully through MDA’s Access the Vote Campaign. Whether you write to your legislators or share resources to help someone navigate their voting options, every action counts.