Families of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Patients Gather in Front of Ministry of Health

On Monday, January 8, a number of family members of Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients gathered in front of the Ministry of Health, demanding the legal importation of the drug Deflazacort. Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a genetic disease that affects the muscles of those afflicted. The main complications of this disease include the destruction of voluntary muscles that play a vital role in body control. Severe forms of this disease can lead to disability, respiratory problems, and death. Deflazacort is a type of medication used by individuals suffering from this disease, which, according to the protesting families, has fewer side effects and greater efficacy, making it an 'essential need for Duchenne patients.' The protesters are calling for the importation of Deflazacort. Families of these patients have previously held protests against the shortage of necessary medications. Gatherings of individuals with disabilities and their families in protest of various shortages, including medication shortages, have made headlines in recent months. Earlier, journalist Samaneh Ghahrekhan told Voice of America that the drug shortage in Iran is due to a 'drug mafia' linked to the Revolutionary Guard and the Islamic Republic.