The impact of SMA on quality of life depends on the severity of symptoms. However, support is available to help everyone living with SMA to reach their full potential. The treatment landscape for the condition is also rapidly evolving. 

Adult-onset SMA is often a mild form of the disease, with minor impacts on quality of life. More information can be found at our Adults (18+) Living With SMA page.

If your child is diagnosed with SMA as a teenager, they may have some muscle wasting and movement limitations, and other symptoms such as scoliosis. You may need to make some accommodations to help them live a full life with SMA. More information can be found at our Teenagers (13-17) Living With SMA page.

If your child is diagnosed with SMA, they will have a certain type of the condition. Each type has a different impacts on the quality and length of life, with different treatment options available for each type of disease. Further information can be found at our Children (0-12) Living With SMA page.

There is currently no cure for SMA, however, treatments are available for eligible patients. More information can be found at our Treatments page.

Whilst genetic carrier screening can test if you and your partner risk passing SMA on to your child, it cannot be used to diagnose your child with SMA. Prenatal screening provides you with a clearer understanding of your child’s SMA diagnosis and can help guide conversations with your healthcare team regarding continuing your pregnancy and considering treatment options for your child. 

People living with SMA will be supported by a multidisciplinary healthcare team, which should include a GP and neurologist, and can include specialists such as physiotherapists and occupational therapists. There are also external support services available, such as SMA Australia’s peer to peer support programs. More information on external support services is available under 'Living with SMA'.