Saskatchewan expanding newborn screening for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)

Statement from Stacey Lintern, Chief Executive Officer, Muscular Dystrophy Canada

Muscular Dystrophy Canada continues to work diligently with donors, provincial governments, partners and supporters to remove barriers so that screening for SMA in Canada is a reality. Growing evidence shows the profound impact newborn screening has on the quality of lives of children born with SMA, and their families. We know that for children affected by SMA, promising outcomes are possible with a timely diagnosis and early access to specialized care and treatment.

We applaud Saskatchewan for recognizing this and expanding their newborn screening panel to include testing for SMA as part of its newborn screening program.

To learn more about SMA newborn screening please visit muscle.ca/services-support/newborn-screening.

If you would like to join Muscular Dystrophy Canada with ensuring Canadian babies have access to timely diagnosis and early access to care and treatment we would welcome your support.

For more information, contact: