Newborn screening tied to better daily function in children with SMA
WHY IT MATTERS
If you have a newborn or are planning to have children, this study shows that newborn screening for SMA can identify the condition early enough for treatment to significantly improve your child's independence and quality of life.
A study from Australia found that children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) who were caught early through newborn screening and received treatment had better ability to do everyday activities and be independent as they grew up. The children did even better when they received care from a team of different specialists both at home and at school. This shows that finding SMA early and getting coordinated care from multiple doctors and therapists makes a real difference in how well children function day-to-day.
Children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) who were diagnosed through newborn screening and treated early had better long-term independence and daily functioning, especially when supported by multidisciplinary care at home and at school, according to a real-world study from Australia. “Multidisciplinary care is important to meet the changing and individualised needs of children with SMA, […] The post Newborn screening tied to better daily function in children with SMA appeared first on SM
ASK YOUR DOCTOR
Ask your pediatrician whether newborn screening for SMA is included in your state's screening panel and discuss what early treatment options are available if your child is diagnosed.