Is there a cure for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)?

Q: My daughter is nearly 7 months old. She has been diagnosed with Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) Type 1. She was a very active baby but since last month, she has been showing no activity in her legs. What are the best possible chances and ways of recovery?

A:I am sorry to hear that your child has SMA. I regret that no cure for this disorder exists. The life span is reduced too. You should continue passive exercises; be careful while feeding (keep her upright when feeding). Chest infection is common in these children.I can share in your sorrow, and Science must feel miserable that it has no cure for this disease. An advice I would like to offer is that prenatal testing is available for diagnosis of SMA, in case you plan another child. In that case tests done in the first 3 months of pregnancy can determine whether the baby is affected or unaffected with SMA.