The World Health Organization (WHO) today called on countries to expand newborn screening for birth defects, emphasizing that early detection and treatment can save lives and reduce lifelong disability for millions of children.
Importance of Newborn Screening
A new WHO report highlights newborn screening as an important opportunity to accelerate progress in child survival. Many conditions, such as congenital hypothyroidism, sickle-cell disease, hearing impairment, and some metabolic disorders, can be successfully treated if identified early after birth.
Burden of Birth Defects
Worldwide, an estimated 8 million babies are born with a birth defect each year, accounting for almost 8% of all deaths among children under five. A staggering 90% of children born with serious birth defects live in low- and middle-income countries with limited access to screening, diagnosis, and treatment.
Recommendations and Success Stories
The WHO encourages every country to initiate newborn screening, starting with a priority condition and gradually expanding. The report showcases countries like Argentina, Brazil, Egypt, and India that have successfully integrated large-scale newborn screening programmes into routine healthcare services.
