ResearchRSSToday
Global study shows how a country’s wealth affects SMA diagnosis rates
A new global study found that spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is diagnosed more often in wealthier countries. This is likely because richer countries have better access to the tools needed to find SMA, including newborn screening programs and modern treatments. The higher number of diagnosed cases in wealthy countries doesn't necessarily mean more people actually have SMA — it probably just means more people are being tested and diagnosed.
WHY IT MATTERSIf you live in a lower-income country, this research highlights why SMA diagnosis rates may be lower in your region and underscores the importance of advocating for expanded newborn screening and diagnostic access in your healthcare system.