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Babies' Lifeline: SMA Screening Urgently Needed
13 Feb
Summary
- New treatments offer a cure for SMA if given at birth.
- Scotland has begun newborn screening for SMA.
- Campaigners push for UK-wide screening to prevent disability.
Britain stands at a critical juncture regarding newborn screening for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a severe muscle-wasting disease. For years, advocacy groups like SMA UK have pushed for the inclusion of SMA in the newborn heel prick test. Previous rejections were based on a lack of evidence for early treatments.
However, life-changing therapies, including gene therapy, are now available. These treatments are most effective when administered at birth, before irreversible muscle damage occurs. Infants identified and treated presymptomatically can achieve developmental milestones previously thought impossible, such as sitting independently and breathing unaided.
Scotland has taken a pioneering step by introducing SMA screening in March 2026. This move is crucial as it prevents the devastating progression of the disease, which can lead to wheelchair dependency and reliance on life-support. The ethical imperative to provide all babies with the best chance at health is undeniable.
With mounting evidence of dramatically improved outcomes, the UK National Screening Committee is now revisiting its decision and moving towards an in-service evaluation. Health Secretary Wes Streeting is applying pressure to accelerate this process. Campaigns emphasize that every month of delay means more babies are diagnosed with SMA, making immediate action essential.
