AB Gov’t announces new screening test on newborns for spinal muscular atrophy

Muscular Dystrophy Canada is providing $366,000 to Alberta Precision Laboratories to begin screening newborns for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).  SMA is a rare genetic condition that causes muscle weakness. The test, which is part of a one-year pilot initiative, will be added to Alberta’s Newborn Metabolic Screening Program which currently screens newborns for 21 conditions.  Health Minister Tyler Shandro says early detection will help babies with SMA have more of a fighting chance.

Naveen Day

Naveen came to Lethbridge in 2018 with experience in broadcast spanning over 20 years. In Winnipeg, he produced two factual entertainment shows for Shaw and Bell MTS prior to his move to Southern Alberta where he quickly ventured out into the world of journalism at Bridge City News. Naveen has a passion for producing thought-provoking and informative news pieces that answer questions we all have in the back of our minds.

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