By Keesha Harewood Global News
Published June 9, 2022, 1:38 p.m.
Smaller font Reduce the font size of the article
-Ah
Larger font Increase the font size of the article
A +
A newborn screening program at Kadham Provincial Laboratory is expanding its services to include spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).
According to the province, SMA is one of the most common causes of fatal genetic diseases in children, affecting approximately one in 18,000 babies.
Read more: Researchers say they have found the cause of babies’ deaths from SIDS
“Being able to expand our newborn screening program means faster, more accurate information and better opportunities for Manitoba families,” said Dr. Paul Van Kezele, medical director of the provincial laboratory in Kadham.
“SMA screening will diagnose babies before an irreversible disease occurs and link them to early care that will give them a much greater opportunity to live active, healthy lives.
Popular stories
-
The national defense is considering the potential “impacts” after a cyber attack on a military contractor
-
Why is China buzzing with Canadian and Australian planes? Here’s what you need to know
Muscular Dystrophy Canada will donate $ 235,000 to the lab over a two-year period to support the expansion.
The story continues under the ad
4:46 New technology connecting parents and newborns at the NICU of St. Boniface Hospital New technology connecting parents and newborns at the NICU at St. Boniface Hospital – December 23, 2021
“Early diagnosis is the key to improving outcomes for babies born with metabolic, endocrine or genetic disorders such as spinal muscular atrophy,” said Health Minister Audrey Gordon.
“Our government is proud to work with our healthcare partners to expand the neonatal screening program to include SMA testing, because we know this is the first step in accessing treatment and providing the best results for families.
© 2022 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.
Add Comment