MDA is the nation’s leading nongovernmental funder of scientific research seeking better treatments and cures for the more than 40 neuromuscular diseases in its program. MDA has funded the discovery of the genetic underpinnings of almost all diseases in its program — including the muscular dystrophies, spinal muscular atrophy, ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or Lou Gehrig’s disease) and several other neuromuscular diseases — and treatments based on this knowledge are being developed, with support from MDA.

Through its national advocacy program, MDA works to make life better for people with muscular dystrophy and related muscle diseases by providing representation in matters of public policy and research advancement, nationally and internationally; and facilitating active involvement in these areas by the people it serves.