Molecular Diagnostics Counseling Care and Research Centre

Commencing the initiative after completing a Pilot & Expansion Project addressing Pediatric Neuro-Muscular Disorders in 8 districts of Tamil Nadu from 2012 to 2014 revealed alarming prevalence rates. The findings indicated a prevalence of 1:1400 live male births, 2.5 times higher than the global average of 1:3500. Now sanctioned by the State Planning Commission and Health & Family Welfare Department, the new project aims to cover the entire state. The goal is to identify and provide genetic counselling for every child with DMD by 2020, conducting screening camps and training healthcare personnel for comprehensive integration into the health system.

Within Coimbatore district's 14 blocks, 46 PHCs (primary health centres), and 328 HSCs (health sub-centres), 1688 Anganwadis operate under ICDS, catering to 854,489 populations in rural areas. These Anganwadi workers, often overlooked, play a crucial role in Indian healthcare. Utilizing iPads and mini projectors in this pilot project, training sessions went beyond traditional methods, ensuring a visual and interactive experience. The focus was on raising awareness about lethal genetic disorders, offering quick tips to identify suspected cases of DMD/SMA through videos. The completion of training across districts within the set time was a success.

The authorisation from the Department of Welfare for Differently Abled Persons (DAP2.1) in September 2014 marked the commencement of the Model Rehab Centre for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Extensive consultations with physiatrists led to the selection of rehabilitation equipment. Engaging physiotherapists and a Research Associate, insights were gathered from established rehabilitation departments in city hospitals. The rehab centre at MDCRC opened in November 2014, catering to 159 registered patients with Duchenne/Becker Muscular Dystrophy in Coimbatore district. Regular rehab meetings and sessions, inclusive of physiotherapy, orthotic devices, and wheelchairs, were provided, addressing the individual needs of each child.

MDCRC's FED Foundation launched the initiative "Strengthening & Expanding the Working Model for Developing Countries towards Identification, Prevention, Management & Awareness of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy" from October 2011 to September 2012. Achievements include creating a registry through routine DMD diagnostics and receiving samples from clinicians and outreach programmes. The "Conquer Duchenne 2012" event emphasized MDCRC's holistic approach, uniting affected children, families, caregivers, scientists, clinicians, paramedics, policymakers, and the public. Dr. B.R. Lakshmi showcased MDCRC's work at international conferences, fostering networking and collaboration. The DNA Bio-bank, meticulously organised, holds 2500 DNA samples, supporting ongoing research in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

Under the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM-1), a grassroots initiative titled "Pilot Project for District-wise Identification and Prevention of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and Spinal Muscular Atrophy" covered five health unit districts in Tamil Nadu from December 2011 to March 2013. Activities included networking with authorities, awareness and training programs, door-to-door surveys, genetic diagnosis, counselling, and multidisciplinary care clinics. The project identified a stunning prevalence of these disorders, 2.4 times higher than global figures. NRHM-2 expanded the initiative to three additional districts, Karur, Namakkal, and Nilgiris, yielding similar outcomes with elevated prevalence rates.