Minister for Health announces introduction of screening for Severe Combined Immunodeficiency and Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Muscular Dystrophy Ireland warmly welcomes the introduction of testing for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), commencing today as part of the expansion of the National Newborn Bloodspot Screening Programme.
Early diagnosis is the single most important factor in improving outcomes for children with SMA. This marks a landmark day for families across Ireland and for members of the SMA community, who have campaigned tirelessly to ensure SMA’s inclusion in the national screening programme.
We also wish to acknowledge the clinical, laboratory, and wider healthcare teams whose expertise, dedication, and collaboration over the past two years have made the integration of this screening test into routine practice possible.