What is spinal muscular atrophy type 1 (SMA1) in Jesy Nelson's twins?

SMA1 is a severe genetic condition affecting muscle strength and movement, diagnosed in Jesy Nelson's newborn twins.

What are the early warning signs of SMA?

Early signs can include reduced muscle movement, difficulty feeding, and not meeting motor milestones like rolling over.

Can spinal muscular atrophy be treated?

While there is no cure for SMA, early diagnosis allows for treatments that can significantly improve a patient's quality of life.

Home / Health / Jesy Nelson's Twins Diagnosed with Devastating SMA1

Jesy Nelson's Twins Diagnosed with Devastating SMA1

5 Jan

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Summary

Newborn twins diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy type 1.
Singer Jesy Nelson now acts as a nurse for her daughters.
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for SMA patients.

Jesy Nelson's Twins Diagnosed with Devastating SMA1

Former Little Mix singer Jesy Nelson recently disclosed the devastating diagnosis of spinal muscular atrophy type 1 (SMA1) for her newborn twin daughters, Ocean Jade and Story Monroe Nelson-Foster. This severe genetic condition affects muscle control and movement, potentially hindering development such as walking and talking.

Nelson described becoming a "nurse" overnight, detailing her journey from initial GP visits prompted by her mother's observations of reduced movement in the twins' legs. Despite reassurances that prematurity could explain developmental delays, struggles with feeding led to further investigation and the SMA1 diagnosis.

SMA1, also known as Werdnig-Hoffmann disease, typically appears in infants under six months and causes progressive muscle weakness. While there is no cure, medical professionals emphasize that early diagnosis and available treatments can profoundly impact a child's quality of life.