Early Detection & Treatment Can Save Lives and Reduce Disability
The World Health Organization (WHO) today called on countries to expand newborn screening for birth defects, emphasizing the importance of early detection and treatment to save lives and reduce lifelong disability.
Estimated 8 Million Babies Born with Birth Defects Each Year
The report estimates that approximately 8 million babies are born with a birth defect each year globally, accounting for 8% of deaths among children under five.
Call for Action and Progress Highlights
The WHO encourages every country to initiate newborn screening, starting with a priority condition and gradually expanding coverage.
- Argentina: Universal newborn screening coverage expansion.
- Brazil: Nationwide screening expansion for multiple life-threatening conditions.
- Egypt: Integration of universal newborn screening for hearing and congenital hypothyroidism into primary healthcare.
- India: Screening of over 28 million children in three years, identifying 900,000 with birth defects.
