Babies born in Alabama in 2008 will be screened for 29 life-threatening disorders – a dramatic increase from 19 just one year ago, according to the Alabama Department of Public Health. The March of Dimes and the American Academy of Pediatrics have endorsed the recommendation of the American College of Medical Genetics that calls for every baby born in the United States to be screened for 29 disorders, including certain metabolic conditions and hearing deficiency. If diagnosed early, all of these conditions can be successfully managed or treated to prevent severe consequences. Alabama currently is screening for 24 disorders.
Newborn screening is done by testing a few drops of blood, usually from a newborn’s heel, before hospital discharge. A positive result does not always mean the infant has the disorder. If a screening result is positive, the infant is re-tested and then given treatment as soon as possible, before becoming seriously ill from the condition.
Parents can find a brochure about the recommended newborn screening tests online at www.marchofdimes.com/nbs. Those who live in states where newborn screening is limited can arrange for additional tests, but these often come at additional expense. Parents should check with their doctor or their state health department for a list of providers of these screening tests.
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