Jesy Nelson calls plan to test newborns for deadly muscle condition a 'victory'
England is launching a study to test all newborns for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a move celebrated by campaigner and former singer Jesy Nelson. Early detection is considered vital because gene therapies can prevent severe symptoms if administered before damage occurs.
Why it matters
This policy change represents a significant advancement in neonatal screening and the application of gene therapy for rare genetic conditions.
Image source, PA Image caption, Former Little Mix singer Jesy Nelson was told her twin daughters may "never walk"
All newborn babies in England will be tested for the genetic disease spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), as part of a major study.
Former Little Mix singer Jesy Nelson has been campaigning for screening since her twin girls were diagnosed with the condition.
Nelson described the announcement as a "victory for every family" affected by SMA.
Early treatment for SMA can transform babies' lives.
SMA causes muscle weakness. This affects movement such as the ability to walk, but it also affects the muscles needed to breathe and to swallow.
In the most severe cases it is fatal before the age of two.
However, there are pioneering gene therapies that can correct the genetic defect that causes SMA.
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