Newborn Screening

Newborn screenings are done within the first three days after a baby is born to test for any disorders or diseases that could potentially affect the baby’s normal functions. Metabolic disorders, blood diseases, and genetic disorders can all be detected early on through these tests. Early detection tests are to identify diseases at the earliest possible stage and can be cured before it cause more harm.

The newborn screening program includes more than 40 disorders, which are very rare, called inborn errors of metabolism. Inborn errors of metabolism are disorders that are usually caused by gene mutations that alter the synthesis of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. Some of the metabolic disorders are fatal, such as Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) and Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD). Due to these mutations, certain toxic natural chemicals produced by the body can become abnormally accumulated.