England to start national newborn SMA screening Oct 2026

England will implement a national newborn screening programme for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a rare and severe genetic muscle-wasting disease, with testing set to begin in October 2026 and full coverage across all English screening laboratories expected by 2027. The announcement follows a high-profile campaign led by former Little Mix singer Jesy Nelson, whose twin daughters were diagnosed with the condition, and marks a significant expansion from earlier plans that would have created regional disparities.

The screening will be conducted as part of an evaluation programme using the standard heel-prick blood test administered to newborns shortly after birth. Health Secretary James Murray stated that the expansion aims to ensure all babies in England are tested from birth, giving them the best possible chance at a full and healthy life. He praised campaigners for their tireless work raising awareness of the serious condition.

Jesy Nelson, whose twins Ocean and Story were diagnosed with SMA Type 1 at six months old, described the decision as a victory for every affected family. She said that while the change cannot alter the future for children already living with SMA, it marks...