NHS England to fund treatment for children with muscle-wasting condition

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The mother of a seven-year-old boy with spinal muscular atrophy has said a new drug could transform his life.

George Lockley uses a wheelchair because the disorder means his muscles are getting weaker.

But the medicine's watchdog, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence has now approved the use of a drug Spinraza which his mother believes could massively improve his life.

  • Spinal muscular atrophy affects the nerves in the spinal cord, making muscles weaker and causing problems with movement, breathing and swallowing

  • Where it develops in babies and toddlers, it can significantly reduce life expectancy

  • Between 600 and 1,200 children and adults are currently living with the condition in England and Wales

  • While not a cure, trials have shown that nusinersen can slow the effects of SMA in some cases, allowing babies and toddlers to develop stronger muscles and survive for longer without breathing support