Neonatal screening · Newborn Metabolic Screening · Newborn screening

Beyond the Bloodspot: A Look at Different Types of Neonatal Screening

The tiny prick on a newborn’s heel is a familiar image, symbolizing the crucial first step in Neonatal Screening (NBS), also known as Newborn Genetic Screening. This vital procedure, often utilizing a blood spot test, checks for a range of inherited disorders. However, NBS goes beyond the bloodspot, encompassing a wider range of techniques to ensure a comprehensive assessment of a newborn’s health.

The Power of the Blood Spot:

While the blood spot test remains the cornerstone of NBS, it offers a window into a vast array of potential issues. This test analyzes the blood for the presence or absence of specific enzymes, hormones, or other markers indicative of various conditions. Common examples include:

  • Congenital Hypothyroidism: This condition affects the thyroid gland, leading to developmental delays if left untreated.
  • Phenylketonuria (PKU): A metabolic disorder that can cause intellectual disability if not managed with dietary restrictions.
  • Cystic Fibrosis: A genetic condition affecting the lungs and digestive system.
  • Sickle Cell Disease: A genetic disease affecting red blood cells, leading to pain and other complications.

Expanding the Scope: Beyond Blood

While the blood spot test is highly effective, it’s not the only tool in the NBS toolbox. Here are some additional screening methods used to create a more comprehensive picture of a newborn’s health:

  • Hearing Screening: This painless test, often performed during sleep, checks for potential hearing loss. Early detection is crucial for ensuring proper language development. Common methods involve placing a tiny probe in the ear canal and measuring the response to sound.
  • Pulse Oximetry: This non-invasive test measures the oxygen saturation in the blood using a clip placed on a finger or foot. It can help identify potential heart defects that might not be readily apparent at birth.
  • Critical Congenital Heart Disease (CCHD) Screening: This screening might utilize pulse oximetry along with additional techniques like echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart) in some cases. Early detection of CCHD allows for timely intervention and improved outcomes.

Tailoring the Approach: Regional Variations

The specific tests included in NBS can vary depending on regional guidelines and the prevalence of certain conditions in a particular population. For instance, some regions might include screening for G6PD deficiency, a condition affecting red blood cells, if it’s more prevalent in their population group.

The Importance of a Multifaceted Approach:

Combining various NBS methods offers several benefits:

  • Comprehensive Assessment: By going beyond the blood spot, NBS provides a more complete picture of a newborn’s health. This allows for earlier detection of a broader range of potential issues.
  • Improved Outcomes: Earlier detection of hearing loss, heart defects, or other conditions allows for prompt intervention and improved long-term health outcomes for the child.
  • Reduced Healthcare Burden: Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent future complications requiring extensive medical interventions, leading to a reduced healthcare burden.

Navigating the Results:

A positive NBS result doesn’t necessarily mean a confirmed diagnosis. It indicates a need for further evaluation through confirmatory tests conducted by specialists. Parents should be well-informed about the specific condition, potential treatment options, and available support systems.

The Future of NBS: Looking Ahead

The field of NBS is constantly evolving, with advancements in technology paving the way for even more comprehensive screening. Here’s a glimpse into what the future might hold:

  • Expanded Screening Panels: As technology advances and research progresses, NBS panels might encompass a wider range of conditions, allowing for early detection of even rarer disorders.
  • Non-invasive Techniques: Future advancements might introduce more non-invasive or minimally invasive screening methods, potentially reducing discomfort for newborns.
  • Personalized Screening: Tailoring NBS panels based on a family’s genetic history or other risk factors might become commonplace, leading to a more personalized approach to newborn health.

Trivitron: Leading the Way in NBS Innovation

As mentioned before, Trivitron’s Labsystems Diagnostics OY division is a global leader in newborn screening technology. Their commitment to innovation is evident in their wide range of instruments and reagents designed for accurate and efficient NBS. By providing advanced solutions, Trivitron plays a crucial role in ensuring healthy futures for countless newborns worldwide.

Conclusion:

Neonatal Screening, with its diverse methodologies, goes far beyond the bloodspot. This multifaceted approach to newborn health assessment is a testament to the power of preventive medicine. By detecting potential issues early, NBS paves the way for timely interventions and brighter futures for children. As technology advances and screening methods further develop, the future of NBS holds immense promise for ensuring the well-being of future generations.

Neonatal screening · Newborn Metabolic Screening · Newborn screening · Newborn Screening Kit

8 Essential Newborn Screening Tests: Safeguarding Your Baby’s Health

Newborn Genetic Screening

The miracle of childbirth brings immense joy, but also a natural instinct to protect your precious newborn. While you’re busy marveling at those tiny fingers and soft coos, a crucial first step ensures your baby’s long-term health: Newborn Genetic Screening (NBS). This simple yet powerful tool acts as a first line of defense, identifying treatable genetic disorders before they cause harm.

The Power of Universal Newborn Screening

Universal Newborn Screening (NBS) is a routine series of tests performed on newborns within the first few days of life. It’s a proactive approach to healthcare, detecting potentially life-threatening or debilitating conditions even before symptoms appear. These disorders, often inherited, can affect a baby’s metabolism, hormone function, or organ development. Early detection allows for prompt intervention and treatment, significantly improving a child’s chances of leading a healthy life.

Trivitron’s EkSahiShuruat Campaign: A Commitment to Early Detection

Trivitron, a global leader in healthcare diagnostics, champions the importance of early detection through their EkSahiShuruat campaign. This campaign emphasizes how their fast, safe, and efficient newborn screening process can help identify early signs of disorders, enabling immediate and effective treatment (as referenced in the provided information). This comprehensive screening, designed to safeguard the future of every baby, ensures they have the best possible start in life.

8 Essential Newborn Screening Tests: A Glimpse into Your Baby’s Health

NBS typically includes tests for eight essential conditions, but the specific panel may vary depending on regional guidelines. Here’s a closer look at some commonly included disorders:

  1. Phenylketonuria (PKU): This condition affects the body’s ability to process an amino acid called phenylalanine. Untreated PKU can lead to intellectual disabilities, behavioral problems, and seizures. Early detection and dietary management can prevent these complications.
  2. Congenital Hypothyroidism (CH): This condition results in an underactive thyroid gland, impacting growth, development, and metabolism. Early diagnosis and hormone replacement therapy can ensure normal growth and development (as discussed in blog2).
  3. Cystic Fibrosis (CF): CF affects the lungs and digestive system, causing thick mucus buildup and breathing difficulties. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve lung function and overall health.
  4. Sickle Cell Disease: This inherited blood disorder causes red blood cells to become sickle-shaped, leading to pain, fatigue, and organ damage. Early diagnosis allows for close monitoring and preventive measures.
  5. Galactosemia: This condition prevents the body from processing a sugar called galactose found in breast milk and formula. Untreated galactosemia can lead to liver damage, developmental delays, and cataracts. Early dietary changes can prevent these complications.
  6. Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD): This group of disorders affects the body’s ability to break down certain amino acids. Left untreated, MSUD can lead to severe neurological problems, coma, and even death. Early diagnosis allows for dietary management and potential lifesaving interventions.
  7. Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH): This condition affects the adrenal glands, which produce essential hormones. Early detection and treatment can prevent serious complications like dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and genital ambiguity in females.
  8. Biotinidase Deficiency: This rare condition affects the body’s ability to utilize biotin, a vitamin important for healthy metabolism. Early diagnosis allows for biotin supplementation, preventing developmental delays and seizures.

A Simple and Painless Procedure

NBS is a simple and painless procedure. Typically, a few drops of blood are collected from your baby’s heel using a tiny prick. The blood sample is then sent to a specialized laboratory for analysis. Depending on the testing methods used, results may take a few days to a few weeks.

What Happens if My Baby’s Screening Results are Abnormal?

If your baby’s NBS results show a potential issue, don’t panic. An abnormal result doesn’t necessarily mean your baby has a disorder. Sometimes, repeat testing or more specific diagnostic tests are needed to confirm a diagnosis. However, early identification allows healthcare professionals to intervene promptly with appropriate treatment or management strategies. This could involve dietary changes, medication, or specialized therapies.

Empowering Parents for a Healthy Future

Newborn Genetic Screening is a vital tool for safeguarding your baby’s health. As highlighted in Trivitron‘s EkSahiShuruat campaign, early detection is key (referencing the campaign info). By proactively identifying potential genetic disorders, NBS empowers early intervention and treatment, paving the way for a healthier and brighter future for your child.

Neonatal screening · Newborn Metabolic Screening · Newborn screening

Cultural and Societal Influences on Newborn Metabolic Screening Acceptance

newborn metabolic screening

Newborn metabolic screening (NMS) is a public health initiative that aims to detect early signs of potential disorders in newborns, allowing for immediate and effective treatment. NMS can identify disorders that are not apparent by physical examination alone, such as congenital hypothyroidism, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and some inherited metabolic diseases. NMS can also empower parents to advocate for their child’s health and make proactive choices, especially if they are carriers of some diseases.

However, the acceptance and implementation of NMS varies across different regions and cultures. There are several factors that may influence the parental attitudes and behaviors toward NMS, such as:

Knowledge and awareness: Parents may have limited or inaccurate information about NMS, its benefits, its procedures, and its outcomes. They may also have misconceptions or myths about NMS, such as believing that it is harmful, unnecessary, or invasive. Lack of knowledge and awareness may lead to low uptake, refusal, or delay of NMS .

Cultural and religious beliefs: Parents may have different beliefs and values regarding NMS, such as its compatibility with their faith, its implications for their child’s identity, or its impact on their family and community. Some parents may perceive NMS as a violation of their child’s rights, a stigma for their child or family, or a challenge to their trust in God .

Social norms and influences: Parents may be influenced by the opinions and expectations of their family members, friends, community leaders, or health care providers regarding NMS. They may also face social pressure or stigma from their peers or society if they choose to accept or decline NMS. Some parents may also lack social support or access to resources to facilitate NMS .

Understanding and addressing these cultural and societal factors is essential for promoting the widespread adoption of NMS programs. Some strategies that may help to improve the acceptance and implementation of NMS are:

Education and communication: Providing accurate, clear, and culturally appropriate information about NMS to parents and the public can increase their knowledge and awareness, dispel myths and misconceptions, and address their concerns and questions. Education and communication can also highlight the benefits and importance of NMS for the child’s health and future .

Informed consent: Obtaining informed consent from parents before performing NMS can respect their autonomy, preferences, and values. Informed consent can also enhance their trust and satisfaction with NMS. However, informed consent should be tailored to the local context and culture, taking into account the legal, ethical, and social implications of NMS.

Engagement and empowerment: Engaging and empowering parents and communities in the design, implementation, and evaluation of NMS programs can foster their participation, ownership, and support for NMS. Engagement and empowerment can also address the cultural and religious diversity and sensitivity of NMS.

One example of a company that provides comprehensive solutions for NMS is Trivitron Healthcare. Trivitron Healthcare’s newborn screening solutions include:

– Fast, safe, and efficient screening tests that can detect various disorders in newborns using blood samples collected on filter paper.

– Comprehensive newborn screening kits that are designed to safeguard the future of every baby by covering a wide range of disorders.

– Advanced technologies such as time-resolved fluorometry that can provide accurate and reliable results.

– Quality assurance services that can ensure the validity and reliability of the screening tests.

– Training and education programs that can enhance the skills and knowledge of the health care providers involved in NMS.

Trivitron Healthcare’s newborn screening solutions are aligned with the global standards and best practices for NMS. They are also adaptable to the local needs and contexts of different regions and cultures.
By providing information about Trivitron Healthcare’s newborn screening solutions, this article aims to raise awareness about the importance of neonatal screening (NNS) for every baby’s health. It also hopes to encourage parents to accept newborn metabolic screening (NMS) for their children as a preventive measure that can make a big difference in their health outcomes.

Newborn Metabolic Screening · Newborn screening

Early Detection and Treatment of Inherited Metabolic Disorders

Newborn Metabolic Screening

Newborn metabolic screening is a blood test that can detect a number of inherited metabolic disorders. These disorders are caused by problems with the way the body breaks down food or produces energy. If left untreated, these disorders can lead to serious health problems, including intellectual disability, seizures, and even death.

Some of the disorders that can be detected through newborn metabolic screening include:

Phenylketonuria (PKU): PKU is a disorder that prevents the body from breaking down a substance called phenylalanine. Phenylalanine is an amino acid that is found in many foods, including milk, cheese, and eggs. If PKU is not treated, high levels of phenylalanine can build up in the blood and damage the brain.

Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough of the hormone thyroxine. Thyroxine is important for growth and development, and low levels of thyroxine can lead to intellectual disability, growth retardation, and other health problems.

Galactosemia: Galactosemia is a disorder that prevents the body from breaking down the sugar galactose. Galactose is found in milk and other dairy products. If galactosemia is not treated, high levels of galactose can build up in the blood and damage the liver, kidneys, and brain.

Medium chain acyl CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD) deficiency: MCAD deficiency is a disorder that prevents the body from breaking down certain fatty acids. Fatty acids are a major source of energy for the body, and MCAD deficiency can lead to seizures, coma, and even death.

Biotinidase deficiency: Biotinidase is an enzyme that helps the body break down biotin. Biotin is an essential nutrient that is involved in many important bodily functions. Biotinidase deficiency can lead to seizures, skin problems, and developmental delays.

Trivitron Healthcare Newborn Metabolic Screening

Trivitron Healthcare is a leading provider of healthcare services in India. The company offers a newborn metabolic screening program that tests for a number of inherited metabolic disorders. The program is conducted using a heel prick blood sample that is taken from the baby within 24 hours of birth. The results of the test are usually available within 2-3 weeks.

Trivitron Healthcare has been a pioneer in newborn metabolic screening for over 20 years. The company has helped thousands of babies in India and other countries receive early diagnosis and treatment for various metabolic disorders. Trivitron Healthcare is committed to improving the health outcomes of newborns and their families through innovation, quality, and service.

If you are interested in learning more about newborn metabolic screening or Trivitron Healthcare’s products and services, Contact number +91 98400 80008 or Email ID: groupmarketing@trivitron.com

Neonatal screening · Newborn Metabolic Screening · Newborn screening

A Tool for Early Detection and Treatment

Newborn genetic screening is a medical procedure that tests a newborn baby’s blood for a number of genetic disorders. The goal of newborn genetic screening is to identify babies who have these disorders early so that they can receive treatment as soon as possible.

Newborn genetic screening is done by taking a small blood sample from the baby’s heel. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is tested for a number of different genetic disorders. The most common disorders that are screened for include:

  • Phenylketonuria (PKU)
  • Sickle cell disease
  • Congenital hypothyroidism
  • Tay-Sachs disease
  • Cystic fibrosis

If a baby is found to have one of these disorders, the parents will be notified and the baby will be referred to a specialist for treatment. Treatment for these disorders can vary depending on the specific disorder, but it can often include medication, dietary changes, or surgery.

Newborn genetic screening is a safe and effective way to identify babies who have genetic disorders. Early diagnosis and treatment of these disorders can improve the quality of life for affected babies and their families.

If you are pregnant, you should talk to your doctor about newborn genetic screening. Newborn genetic screening is not mandatory in all states, but it is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Neonatal screening · Newborn Metabolic Screening · Newborn screening · Newborn Screening Kit

Trivitron Healthcare’s Role in Advancing Newborn Screening for G6PD Deficiency Worldwide

Universal Newborn Screening for G6PD Deficiency - Trivitron Healthcare

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is a genetic disorder that affects red blood cells. It is caused by mutations in the G6PD gene, which provides instructions for making an enzyme called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase. This enzyme helps red blood cells function properly by protecting them from damage caused by certain chemicals and oxidative stress.

Newborn metabolic screening for G6PD deficiency is an important tool to identify babies who are at risk for developing severe jaundice, hemolytic anemia, and other complications associated with the disorder. The screening test involves collecting a small sample of blood from the baby’s heel shortly after birth and analyzing it for the presence of G6PD deficiency.

In countries where G6PD deficiency is prevalent, newborn screening for the disorder is a routine part of the national health program. In other countries, however, G6PD deficiency screening is not widely available, and many affected babies may not be diagnosed until they develop symptoms.

According to the blog article on Trivitron Healthcare’s website, G6PD deficiency is one of the most common genetic disorders worldwide, affecting an estimated 400 million people, predominantly in Africa, Asia, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East. The disorder is inherited in an X-linked recessive pattern, which means that it mostly affects males. Females can also have G6PD deficiency, but they are usually less severely affected because they have two copies of the X chromosome, one of which can compensate for the other.

Newborns with G6PD deficiency may appear healthy at birth, but they are at risk of developing severe jaundice within the first few days of life. Jaundice is a condition in which the skin and whites of the eyes become yellow due to the buildup of bilirubin, a substance produced when red blood cells break down. In severe cases, jaundice can cause brain damage and even death if left untreated.

Trivitron Healthcare is a leading manufacturer and supplier of neonatal G6PD screening assays. Their Neonatal G6PD assay is a highly sensitive and specific test that can detect G6PD deficiency in newborns with a small blood sample. The assay uses a fluorometric method to measure the activity of the G6PD enzyme in red blood cells.

Trivitron Healthcare’s Neonatal G6PD assay is designed to be easy to use and requires minimal training. The assay is compatible with most clinical chemistry analyzers, making it convenient for laboratories to incorporate into their routine testing protocols.

By providing reliable and accurate screening for G6PD deficiency in newborns, Trivitron Healthcare is helping to prevent the serious complications associated with this disorder. Early identification of G6PD deficiency allows healthcare providers to closely monitor affected newborns and provide prompt treatment if necessary, reducing the risk of severe jaundice, hemolytic anemia, and other complications.

Trivitron Healthcare’s commitment to improving newborn screening for G6PD deficiency is part of their broader mission to enhance the quality of healthcare worldwide. Their innovative products and solutions are used in hospitals and laboratories in more than 165 countries, helping to improve patient outcomes and advance global health.

Neonatal screening · Newborn Metabolic Screening · Newborn screening · Newborn Screening Kit · Trivitron Healthcare · Universal Newborn Screening

How and When Should Newborn Screening Be Carried Out? – Trinitron

Universal Newborn Screening - Trinitron

Universal Newborn Screening is a set of simple tests administered to newborn babies within 24 to 72 hours of birth, which helps to detect congenital metabolic disorders and conditions. Without these tests, it is possible that permanent and irreversible damage may have occurred before any clinical signs are evident. By having these Newborn Screening Kit, it becomes possible to provide immediate treatment and avoid further complications. It is important to note that these tests are not diagnostic; they only help to identify babies at risk and require further testing. In some countries, these tests are mandatory and funded by the Government, but unfortunately in India, it is not yet compulsory.

Newborn Genetic Screening (NBS) is a procedure that uses a sample of a newborn baby’s blood to screen for potential genetic or medical conditions. A small amount of blood is drawn from the heel of the baby and then placed on a special filter paper. This filter paper is then sent to a screening laboratory along with a form that contains important information about the baby, such as their birth weight, gestational age, date and time of birth, and of sample collection. The hearing test is also conducted using a soft ear plug. 

The number of conditions tested for varies, but generally newborn metabolic screening tests for 31 core disorder types, including phenylketonuria, congenital hypothyroidism, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, galactosemia, sickle cell anemia, and cystic fibrosis. Even if the baby appears normal, it is important for them to undergo NBS to detect any rare or serious conditions that may be present. Although the screening tests only provide preliminary information, they can help doctors determine if more accurate tests are needed.

Trivitron offers an expansive selection of Newborn Screening (NBS) Kits, ranging from modular to fully automated instrumentation, to manual and automated equipment, as well as reagent kits.

Trivitron is a leading provider of Neonatal Screening (NBS) Instruments. They offer a wide range of options, from fully automated instrumentation to manual equipment and reagent kits. Our modular instruments are designed to offer the highest level of accuracy and reliability, while automated systems provide the convenience of easy operation. With the help of their experienced professionals and top-notch products, Trivitron makes sure that the newborn screening process is conducted with the highest level of accuracy and efficiency.
For more details read: When Newborn Screening Should Be Done

Newborn Metabolic Screening · Newborn screening · Newborn Screening Kit · Universal Newborn Screening

Newborn Metabolic Screening Protocols: A Guide

Bringing the infant home is a thrilling experience for parents. The screening of infants for numerous disorders has become mandatory in modern times. Screening an infant guarantees that the infant is devoid of any disorder that is not evident at birth. It also eliminates the risk of any prospective aberration that could develop into a major worry over time. Newborn screening is on the cusp of becoming standard practise as people become more health conscious. The government has also acknowledged its significance and has been crucial in making newborn metabolic screening a mandatory medical procedure. A “walkthrough” will aid in gaining greater understanding of the topic.

Newborn Metabolic Screening - Trivitron

Typically, newborn genetic screening begins 48 hours after birth, while the infant is still in the hospital. Any time after the prescribed deadline poses a danger of delayed treatment for a newborn who, by chance, may test positive for any ailment, and a delay in treatment may cause certain treatable disorders to deteriorate into severe irreversible problems. Some hospitals even advise parents, in cooperation with the child’s paediatrician, to have the infant undergo a second blood test between 1 and 2 weeks of age.

Optimally, newborn screening is conducted utilising the three approaches listed below:

  • Blood tests
  • Hearing exam
  • Critical Congenital Heart Disease (CCHD) screening

Blood test

Blood or heel testing is the initial stage in the newborn genetic screening procedure. The heel of the infant is pricked and a few drops of blood are drawn. The blood is subsequently transported to a laboratory for examination. In addition, the hospital personnel will collect critical information such as the baby’s name and that of its parents, as well as the baby’s age, gender, weight, date and time of first feeding, etc. Blood samples are analysed to diagnose a variety of conditions, such as congenital hypothyroidism, sickle cell disease, phenylketonuria, fatty acid metabolism abnormality, etc.

Hearing exam

As the name suggests, this component of the examination helps determine if the infant has a hearing problem or loss. The following tests are commonly used to assess newborns for hearing loss:

The Otoacoustic Emissions Test identifies whether or not specific areas of the infant’s ear respond to sound.

Auditory Brain Stem Response Test, which measures the hearing nerve and brain’s response to sound.

CCHD testing

CCHD screening is undertaken to rule out the likelihood of critical congenital heart disease in neonates, hence the term. Using an equipment called a “oximeter,” a healthcare professional measures the oxygen level in the blood during this examination. Lower oxygen levels in the blood of an infant may indicate structural or behavioural cardiac abnormalities.

Newborn metabolic screening is recommended not only for newborns born in hospitals, but also for those born at home, in adoption centres, or elsewhere. In addition to providing clarity regarding the baby’s health, an effective newborn screening assures the baby’s safety, health, and happiness in the future.

A newborn screening kit is a set of medical tests that are performed on a newborn baby to identify any potential health problems. The Trivitron’s Newborn Screening Kit is a simple, reliable and affordable solution for the early detection of Newborn metabolic screening. Our newborn screening kit is FDA cleared and CE marked.

Neonatal screening · Newborn Metabolic Screening · Newborn screening · Newborn Screening Kit · Universal Newborn Screening

How newborn screening is performed in India and what it entails

Newborn screening (NBS) is the technique of screening babies for abnormalities that might cause serious sickness or mortality if not recognized and treated early. Delay or omission in diagnosing an Inborn Error of Metabolism (IEM) or other disorders detectable from birth, such as hypothyroidism, G6PD deficiency, and many more, may result in a significant mental decline in the affected babies. Newborn Metabolic Screening for a variety of metabolic and other abnormalities, allowing for intervention before the onset of symptoms or mental and/or physical disability. Neonatal screening is performed in various developed nations as a means of preventing morbidity and death. Newborn Screening Kits are used by several nations to screen newborns for up to fifty illnesses, depending on the occurrence.

Newborn Screening Kit helps to identify illnesses; it is a coordinated, complete system that includes education, follow-up of aberrant findings and confirmatory testing, diagnosis, treatment, management, periodic outcome assessment, quality assurance, and program evaluation.

newborn metabolic screening - Trivitron Healthcare
newborn metabolic screening – Trivitron Healthcare

Although the actual incidence in India is still under research, it is supposed that hearing problems and congenital cardiac abnormalities have an incidence of roughly 4:1000 and 5:1000, respectively, while the incidence of IEMs is approximately 1:1000. This high occurrence is a result of our country’s high prevalence of consanguinity. Many children acquire mental retardation, learning impairments, autism, dyslexia, behavioral abnormalities, and academic backwardness if undetected and mistreated. The diagnosis, treatment, and management of these affected babies impose a substantial financial and emotional strain on the parents. The most reasonable and cost-effective method of averting such tragedies would be to implement an NBS program that detects the majority of avoidable or curable IEMs and other genetic diseases, if not all of them. Therefore, all metropolitan hospitals in India should perform Newborn Metabolic Screening for at least the most prevalent diseases: Congenital Hypothyroidism, Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH), and Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency (G6PD) deficiency. For rural areas, certain centers must be set up in the government hospital itself to cater to the need of the newborns, and they must make it mandatory that after every newborn birth, they must undergo this test.

Common Diseases and Their Prevalence 

Mental retardation’s most prevalent avoidable cause is congenital hypothyroidism. The frequency is 1:2500–2800 live births worldwide. The most prevalent cause of CH, accounting for 75 to 80 % of all cases, is thyroid dysgenesis. The actual incidence of this condition in India is unknown. However, it seems to be much greater than in the rest of the globe. Not only is it the most prevalent avoidable cause of mental retardation, but the treatment cannot be afforded by everyone.

G6PD insufficiency is the most prevalent enzyme deficit, affecting about 400 million individuals worldwide. Additionally, it is the most prevalent genetic condition in India. Although the actual prevalence is unknown, a range of 2-27.9% has been observed by several studies in diverse areas. It is an X-linked recessive condition that manifests with hemolytic anemia and persistent jaundice and causes substantial morbidity and death in children.

In nations such as the United States, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, the Philippines, the Middle East, and Europe, NBS for G6PD has been effectively applied. Public and pediatric health professionals in India have long recognized NBS for G6PD deficiency. The implementation of a screening program will significantly reduce hospital admissions due to acute hemolysis, hence lowering the need for blood transfusions and dialysis.

PKU, MSUD, homocystinuria, methylmalonic academia, propionic academia, and isovaleric academia are some other common health concerns that be detected by the NBS method. The majority of these conditions are characterized by life-threatening episodes and may leave the afflicted kid with lasting neurological complications if left undiagnosed and untreated.

Need for Universal Newborn Screening Implementation and Proper Execution With Proper Awareness

One must make a note that the Newborn Genetic Screening program’s success is only when there is continuous monitoring of affected infants, even after the test is conducted. There are instances (especially for births in public hospitals) in which the affected infant’s health improves and the parents discontinue treatment without the physicians’ knowledge. This defeats the screening program’s intent. In India, it is difficult to implement newborn screening universally, although increased awareness and initiatives over the last decade have resulted in more newborns getting checked each year.

The success of the current newborn screening program can only be possible with the help of government and awareness campaigns, that aid in making newborn genetic screening a mandatory test and a national program for preventing high infant mortality rates and securing the future health of newborns with initial diagnosis and treatment plans provided by a medical expert.

In addition to Modular & Fully Automated Newborn Screening kit, Trivitron offers reagent kits, manual equipment, and fully automated equipment for newborn screening.

Newborn Metabolic Screening · Newborn Screening Kit · Trivitron Healthcare · Universal Newborn Screening

Universal Newborn Screening | Newborn Screening Kit | Trivitron Healthcare

The Trivitron Healthcare Newborn Screening Kit is a complete solution for newborn metabolic screening. In addition to newborn screening kits, instruments, manual and automated equipment, and reagent kits, we are the complete universal newborn screening system. 

Newborn Metabolic Screening - Trivitron Healthcare
Universal Newborn Screening

When newborn babies are born, they usually appear healthy and perfect. Newborn metabolic screening is the only way for us to find some potential problems in newborn babies. It identifies certain serious medical conditions in your baby through a special test called the Newborn Metabolic Screen. In order to identify babies who have these disorders early and ensure they receive treatment as soon as possible, the screening aims to detect them before they get sick. 

 In order to provide universal newborn screening kits, Trivitron Healthcare is a leading supplier and manufacturer of health equipment.

Visit: https://www.trivitron.com