Early treatment essential for SMA patients to improve chances of survival

SHAH ALAM - Early and continuous treatment is essential for those suffering from Type 1 Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) to improve their chances of survival, says a paediatric and neurological specialist consultant.

Prince Court Medical Centre Paediatric and Neurological Specialist Consultant Dr Mohd Feizel Alsiddiq Mohd Fakharuddin said early treatment could help patients develop normally and live a normal childhood.

He said that SMA is a rare genetic disease that can be inherited from parents.

"If both parents carry small traces of SMA genes, there is a one in four chance that their child will be afflicted by the disease," he said.

He added that SMA patients often have brittle bones and muscle agitation, which can make it difficult for them to stand or walk.

"Their bones do not grow properly, which can lead to a bent spine," he said.

Dr Feizel said that there are several hospitals in Malaysia that offer treatment for SMA, including Universiti Malaya Medical Centre (PPUM), Kuala Lumpur Hospital (HKL), and Kota Damansara Thompson Hospital.

He urged parents who suspect that their child may have SMA to seek early diagnosis and treatment.

"Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for improving the chances of survival and quality of life for SMA patients," he said.