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Jesy Nelson in tears as SMA petition hits 100,000 signatures

Jesy Nelson in tears as SMA petition hits 100,000 signatures

Summary

Jesy Nelson, a former member of Little Mix, started a petition to include spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) in newborn health checks. The petition reached 100,000 signatures, prompting a debate in the UK House of Commons. Nelson's twins were diagnosed with SMA, and she is advocating for early screening to help others detect the condition sooner.

Key Facts

  • Jesy Nelson launched a petition to include SMA in newborn health checks.
  • The petition received 100,000 signatures, leading to a debate in the UK Parliament.
  • Nelson's twins were diagnosed with SMA, a serious muscle disease.
  • SMA can cause problems like difficulty sitting, crawling, or even swallowing.
  • SMA affects about 1 in 10,000 births, according to the NHS.
  • Current screening for SMA is only done if a sibling has the condition.
  • Nelson met with Health Secretary Wes Streeting to discuss the importance of early detection.
  • A gene therapy drug, Zolgensma, can treat SMA if given early, but screening is necessary to detect the condition in time.
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