Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a rare, progressive neuromuscular disease caused by a genetic mutation that impairs the survival of neurons vital for movement and motor function. It is characterised by gradual weakening and wasting  of muscles that impacts daily functions like walking, eating and breathing, resulting in some individuals needing round-the-clock care and support.1 

SMA most commonly affects infants but many older children and adults are also affected.1 There are 40 to 50 SMA patients in Singapore; more than 80% of those supported by MDAS are aged 16 years and older.2, 3 Although there is increasing awareness of SMA in Singapore, there is still opportunity to do more to address the difficulties encountered by older children and adult SMA patients. In addition, despite effective treatments and supportive care being available, they are often insufficiently covered by existing healthcare funding in Singapore.

References

1. Cleveland Clinic. Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). Available at https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14505-spinal-muscular-atrophy-sma [Last accessed January 2024]

2. Singapore Ministry of Health. Notice paper 1804. Response to parliamentary question on Singaporeans diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy and cost of treatment. 22 March 2023. Available at: https://www.moh.gov.sg/news-highlights/details/singaporeans-diagnosed-with-spinal-muscular-atrophy-and-cost-of-treatment. [Last accessed January 2024] 

3. Muscular Dystrophy Association (Singapore). Data on file. February 2024.