(Columbia, SC, April 4, 2007)—The South Carolina Chapter of the March of Dimes applauds the state’s Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) for adding Tyrosinemia to its panel of required newborn screens.  Currently, the state requires screening for 28 of the 29 “core” conditions recommended by the American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG) and endorsed by the March of Dimes.

“This is a great day for babies born in South Carolina and their parents,” said Jim Hart, Chairman of the March of Dimes State Public Affairs Committee. “DHEC is to be commended for this important step in ensuring the health of babies in our state.”

 Tyrosinemia is a genetic disorder that results in elevated blood tyrosine levels due to a deficiency in one of the enzymes required to metabolize tyrosine. If untreated, this condition can cause serious medical problems.

 The March of Dimes recommends that every baby born in the United States receive screening for a uniform panel of 29 disorders that includes metabolic conditions and hearing deficiency. All of these disorders can be successfully managed or treated to prevent severe consequences, if diagnosed early.

 Last year, the South Carolina March of Dimes chapter invested more than $4.2 million in program services, including research grants and local community services. Through these grants, the March of Dimes is seeking ways to prevent birth defects and infant death, reduce South Carolina’s increasing premature birth rate, increase access to prenatal care and educate men and women about having healthy babies.

 The March of Dimes is a national voluntary health agency whose mission is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. Founded in 1938, the March of Dimes funds programs of research, community services, education, and advocacy to save babies and in 2003 launched a campaign to reduce the rate of premature birth. For more information, visit the March of Dimes Web site at marchofdimes.com/southcarolina or its Spanish-language Web site at nacersano.org.

FOR INFORMATION CONTACT: Jessica Mullen, Associate Director of Program Services 803-2525-5200