Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleEngland will implement a national newborn screening programme for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) as part of an evaluation, starting from the end of this year. The programme, utilising a simple heel prick blood test, will begin rolling out in October, with full implementation across all UK screening laboratories expected by 2027. Former Little Mix star Jesy Nelson, whose twins were diagnosed with SMA, spearheaded the campaign for the full national rollout, hailing it as a “victory for every family affected”.This development ensures all parts of England will be covered, addressing previous concerns about a “postcode lottery” where some babies might not be screened based on their location. Early diagnosis and treatment for SMA are crucial, as the condition can lead to severe muscle wastage, and timely intervention can significantly improve a child's quality of life and health outcomes. In fullJesy Nelson says baby SMA screening rollout is ‘a victory for every family affected’More bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

Former Little Mix star revealed why her twin daughters' treatment for their SMA diagnosis was delayed despite bringing risks if could have a permanent effect

Former Little Mix star Jesy Nelson's children Ocean and Story were diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1.

Jesy Nelson has revealed her joy as she announced the SMA Type 1 screening test will now be rolled out across the whole of the UK as a result of her campaigning.

'The Mirror has campaigned for SMA screening since 2021. From October, that campaign delivers as every newborn in England will be tested. This is a landmark victory for all…

The Department of Health confirmed that England will implement the national newborn screening programme for SMA as part of an evaluation from the end of this year

Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or…

Former Little Mix star Jesy Nelson has been the face of the campaign after her twins were diagnosed

Every baby born in England will be screened for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) from October 2027 under a nationwide newborn testing programme, after the Department of Health and…