Description
For 1997 forward, MUSCDYSTEV identifies those sample children whom a doctor or other health professional ever diagnosed as having Muscular Dystrophy. In 2008, the variable also identifies sample adults who ever had Muscular Dystrophy.
The Field Representative's Manual for 2001 forward defines Muscular Dystrophy as "any of several inherited diseases characterized by progressive degeneration of the skeletal muscles. The most common form, Duchenne, affects only boys and begins with leg weaknesses. Another form involves primarily facial and shoulder muscles and affects both sexes." This definition was not routinely shared with respondents.
Comparability
In addition to changes in the question universe, the question wording (for 2008) is different for adults and children. In the case of children, respondents were shown a list of conditions (including Muscular Dystrophy) and were asked if a doctor or health professional had ever diagnosed the child with any of those conditions. For adults, interviewers asked only, "Have you ever had ... Muscular Dystrophy?"
This difference in wording regarding diagnosis should not greatly limit comparability across age groups (under versus over age 18). Self-diagnosis of Muscular Dystrophy is unlikely, and adults answering affirmatively would probably have been diagnosed by a health care professional.
Universe
- 1997-2007: Sample children under age 18.
- 2008: Sample children under age 18 and sample adults age 18+.
- 2009-2010: Sample children under age 18.
Codes and Frequencies
Availability
- 1997-2010
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Weights
- 1997-2010 : SAMPWEIGHT
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