Central Corfu Municipal Buildings to be symbolically lit up
CORFU. On the occasion of Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Awareness Month.
(Central Corfu Municipality)On the occasion of Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Awareness Month, and in an effort to enhance the recognition and visibility of people with rare diseases, the Municipality of Central Corfu and Diapontia Islands will symbolically light up the facades of municipal buildings in fuchsia. The Old Town Hall (San Giacomo), the Marasleio Town Hall, and the Municipal Theatre will be illuminated.
Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a rare neuromuscular disorder that results in the loss of motor neurons and progressive muscle atrophy. Four subtypes have been identified, based on the age of onset and the severity of the disease. All are characterised by varying degrees of muscle weakness and atrophy, primarily affecting the lower limbs and respiratory muscles.
Diagnosis typically occurs in infancy or early childhood, and if not treated promptly, it is the most common genetic cause of infant mortality. However, it can also appear later in life.
The weakness is almost always symmetrical and progressive. Other organs or parts of the nervous system are rarely involved in the manifestation of the disease. The prevalence is estimated at approximately 1 in 30,000.
Diagnosis is based on clinical examination and medical history and can be confirmed through genetic testing. Additional diagnostic tools include electromyography and muscle biopsy.
Photo: Central Corfu and Diapontia Islands Municipality
