The therapy has brought new hope to families affected by SMA Last updated: May 12, 2026 | 15:49 Supplied Tawam Hospital, part of SEHA and a subsidiary of PureHealth, has successfully administered advanced gene therapy treatment to an 18-month-old Omani child diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). Officials described the case as a major medical milestone in the field of paediatric neurology and genetic medicine. Get updated faster and for  FREE : Download the  Gulf News  app now - simply  click here . SMA is a rare genetic disorder that affects the nerves responsible for muscle movement. The condition causes gradual muscle weakness and can affect a child’s ability to sit, crawl, walk, swallow and breathe. Doctors explained that the disease occurs when the SMN1 gene is missing or not functioning properly, leading to the deterioration of motor neurones over time.…