Little Mix star Jesy Nelson recently shared the distressing news that her baby twins have been diagnosed with a severe form of Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). In an emotional Instagram post, she expressed the gravity of the situation, stating that her daughters could face life-threatening challenges without immediate treatment.
Spinal Muscular Atrophy is a genetic condition characterized by the degradation of motor nerve cells in the spinal cord, leading to significant muscle weakness and mobility issues. The severity of the disease varies, manifesting in four distinct types, categorized by the age of onset. Type 1, which is typically diagnosed within the first six months of life, is often fatal. Type 2 is identified after six months, while Type 3 presents after 18 months, potentially requiring wheelchair assistance. The rarest Type 4 typically emerges in adulthood.
Common symptoms of SMA include floppy or weak limbs, difficulties with movement such as sitting or walking, muscle twitching, curvature of the spine, challenges with swallowing, and breathing problems. Importantly, SMA does not impact cognitive abilities or cause learning disabilities.
The inheritance pattern of this genetic disorder means that a child can only be affected if both parents carry a faulty gene, which most of the time they may not exhibit themselves. It’s estimated that around 1 in every 40 to 60 individuals is a carrier of the gene associated with SMA, which affects approximately 1 in 11,000 babies.
Health professionals encourage those who exhibit symptoms of SMA, or have concerns about their child’s development, to consult with a general practitioner. Additionally, individuals planning to have children should seek advice if there’s a family history of SMA.
As Jesy Nelson brings attention to this critical condition, her experience underscores the importance of awareness and early detection for Spinal Muscular Atrophy, paving the way for timely intervention and support for affected families.