Which of the following disabilities is degenerative and often leads to death in adolescence or early adulthood?

• A. Muscular dystrophy
• B. Cerebral palsy
• C. Down syndrome
• D. Autism spectrum disorder

Answer: (A)

Muscular dystrophy is a group of genetic disorders characterized by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness. It is degenerative in nature, meaning that the condition worsens over time and leads to a gradual loss of muscle function. Depending on the specific type of muscular dystrophy, many individuals with the disease face life-threatening complications, particularly in the later stages of the condition.

For example, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, one of the most common forms, typically manifests in early childhood and progresses rapidly. Most affected individuals do not survive into their 30s, and many may experience severe health challenges during their teenage years. The degeneration of the muscles can compromise respiratory and cardiac function, ultimately leading to death in adolescence or early adulthood.

In contrast, cerebral palsy is a group of disorders affecting movement and muscle tone, typically caused by brain damage before or at birth; it is not degenerative and individuals often have a normal lifespan. Down syndrome is a chromosomal condition that can lead to various developmental and health challenges, but many individuals live into adulthood, and life expectancy has increased significantly. Autism spectrum disorder is characterized by challenges with social skills and communication but is not a degenerative condition and also does not result in life-threatening complications in the same way that muscular dystrophy