Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on SMA Screening and Care: Physician and Community Insights.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

As part of efforts to reduce diagnostic delays and enhance clinical trials, Cure SMA evaluated the effects of COVID-19 on SMA care and clinical trial conduct.

Introduction

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an autosomal recessive neuromuscular disease characterized by progressive, potentially debilitating muscle weakness and atrophy. Uninterrupted access to early diagnosis, disease-modifying treatment, and care for SMA is vital to avoiding irreversible motor neuron death and achieving optimal patient outcomes.

Methods

Two surveys were conducted: a provider survey and a community survey. The Provider Impact Survey, distributed from November 24, 2020, through March 8, 2021, assessed COVID-19's effects on referrals for evaluation of suspected SMA, cancellations a

SUBMITTER: Curry M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10444727 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature