Jesse Nelson calls plan to test newborns for deadly muscle disease SMA ‘victory’

The test uses a blood sample taken from the heel shortly after birth.

“After years of campaigning, it means a lot,” Nelson said.

“Today is a day of hope. I am incredibly proud to know that future families will have an early diagnosis and the opportunity to achieve the best possible outcome.”

“This is a victory for every family affected by SMA. While it may not change the future of our children, I know that a brighter future has begun for SMA families.”

Hundreds of thousands of children are expected to be screened for SMA as part of the study, led by scientists at the University of Oxford.

That will help the UK National Selection Committee make the final decision on whether the SMA test should become a permanent fixture.

Health Secretary James Murray said he was “in awe” of campaigners who worked to raise awareness of SMA.

“No parent should have to watch their child lose the ability to move or breathe, knowing that early treatment can make all the difference,” he said.