Newborn screening identifies babies with serious, potentially life-threatening conditions, helping ensure they receive lifesaving treatments

September is recognized as Newborn Screening Awareness Month across the United States. Newborn screening is a state public health program that identifies newborns who may have a genetic, metabolic, or other congenital disorder that may not be apparent at birth. Early screening makes a difference. If left untreated, these conditions may cause serious illness, developmental disability, intellectual impairment, or death.

Each year in Alabama, approximately 200 babies are identified with a condition detected through newborn screening. Screening allows treatment to be initiated within the first few weeks of life, helping prevent many of the complications associated with newborn screening disorders such as sickle cell disease and cystic fibrosis.

In Alabama, the newborn screening panel includes dried bloodspot (heelstick) testing, hearing screening, and pulse oximetry screening. Pulse oximetry screening helps detect critical congenital heart disease. The panel covers 35 of the 40 disorders recommended by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Parents need to know that their baby should undergo newborn screening between 24 and 48 hours of age. They should also inform the hospital who their baby's doctor is to ensure timely follow-up if needed. Parents should also ask about the newborn screening results at their baby's first doctor's visit.

The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) Bureau of Clinical Laboratories screens approximately 120,000 specimens annually. Newborn screening continues to expand as more disorders are recommended for the national panel. In addition to screening, ADPH follows up and provides newborn screening awareness and education to improve the lives of Alabama's babies.

For more information, go to https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/newbornscreening/index.html.