Kyrgyzstan Increases Support for Children Battling Rare Genetic Disease

The Kyrgyz government has increased financial support for the treatment of children suffering from spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).

Although the specific amount of the new funding has not been revealed, officials say the additional resources will expand access to life-saving therapies for children battling this rare neuromuscular disorder. There are currently 43 children in Kyrgyzstan officially diagnosed with SMA, The Caspian Post reports, citing Kyrgyz media.

The center reported that 19 children are already receiving free treatment with Risdiplam, an oral medication that slows the progression of the disease and improves motor function. Additionally, four children are undergoing advanced treatment abroad, receiving cutting-edge drugs such as Zolgensma and Spinraza.

The remaining 18 children are awaiting the arrival of critical medications in Kyrgyzstan, the center said, stressing the importance of timely access to therapy.