- Former Little Mix star Jesy Nelson has celebrated a "major milestone" as screenings for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) are set to begin earlier than planned.
- The singer campaigned for universal newborn screening after her twins were diagnosed with the rare degenerative condition, which causes progressive muscle wastage.
- Health secretary Wes Streeting confirmed that SMA screenings will commence as part of in-screening evaluations (ISE) from October 2026, three months ahead of the original schedule.
- Nelson's campaign highlighted the life-changing impact of early detection, as her twins received treatment but cannot regain muscle function already lost.
- SMA UK chief executive Giles Lomax welcomed the announcement, emphasising the goal to extend the screening programme across all of England and the home nations.
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