SMA (spinal muscular atrophy)

Type: Concept

As of November 2026, SMA (spinal muscular atrophy) has been mentioned in one podcast episode on Rotten Mango (Nov 2025). Diagnosed in Aziza's child (Coco) and central to the discussion of child morbidity, care challenges and eventual death.

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a rare neuromuscular disorder that results in the loss of motor neurons and progressive muscle wasting. It is usually diagnosed in infancy or early childhood and, if left untreated, it is the most common genetic cause of infant death. It may also appear later in life and then have a milder course of the disease. The common feature is the progressive weakness of voluntary muscles, with the arm, leg, and respiratory muscles being affected first. Associated problems