What is SMA?

Spinal Muscular Atrophy is a motor neuron disease that can present itself anywhere from birth to early adolescence, and in rare cases adulthood.  The majority of SMA cases are reported between the ages of 6 months, and 3 years of age.  SMA affects the voluntary muscles used for activities such as crawling, walking, head and neck control, and swallowing.  It is the most common "rare disorder" in children, and the number one cause of death between birth and age two.  Approximately 1 in 6000 babies born are affected, and 1 in 40 people are genetic carriers.  Sma affects muscles throughout the body, though the muscles nearest to the core are most affected (ie shoulders, hips and back).  Weakness in the legs is generally greater than in the arms, and feeding/swallowing can be affected.  When the respiratory muscles become involved, it can lead to increased risk and tendency for pneumonia and other lung problems.  The ability to feel and sense are not affected, and intellectual activity is observed as normal, or above average.  Patients are usually grouped into one of four categories.


For more information, see www.curesma.org.