Jesy Nelson launches petition to add SMA to newborn screening.

Jesy Nelson said her twin babies were diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy type 1 and she has launched a petition to add SMA to the newborn heel‑prick screening; the proposal is under review and NHS Scotland plans to add it in 2026.

Jesy Nelson announced that her twin daughters, born in May, have been diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy type 1. She said she is starting a petition to seek inclusion of SMA in the standard newborn heel‑prick screening. SMA Type 1 is a genetic condition that causes muscle weakness and can be life‑threatening if undiagnosed. NHS Scotland has announced plans to add SMA screening in 2026, and the screening change in England is currently under review. Key points: - Jesy Nelson said both of her twin babies were diagnosed with SMA Type 1. - She has launched a petition to add screening for SMA to the newborn heel‑prick test. - NHS Scotland has announced plans to include SMA screening in 2026; NHS England has not announced a decision. - Nelson reported that feeding and movement concerns preceded the twins' diagnosis and that diagnosis took months. Summary: The petition seeks to identify cases of SMA at birth through the existing heel‑prick screening so that diagnosis happens earlier. The proposal is under review and Scotland intends to add SMA screening in 2026, while a decision for England has not been announced. Nelson has said she will continue to pursue the petition and will speak publicly about the issue, including in an upcoming broadcast appearance.