Health
More states offering core newborn screening but many still fall short
NEWS IN BRIEF — Posted July 19, 2004
The number of states that provide the nine newborn screening tests recommended by the March of Dimes increased from nine to 21 in the past year, according to a report the organization issued last month.
The "State Report Card on Testing for March of Dimes Recommended Newborn Screening Conditions" found that 21 states meet the organization's standards. Fourteen screen only for six to eight genetic metabolic disorders. Nine have authorized expansion of their newborn screening programs but have not actually implemented them. Seven are running expanded programs only in selected populations.
In addition, most states have improved hearing screening, in accordance with the nonprofit's recommendations, although seven still fail to screen 90% of newborns for hearing loss.
The organization raised the alarm because these numbers mean that approximately 70% of newborns nationally may not be receiving the nine recommended screening tests for genetic disorders and many may not be getting their hearing checked.
"It's time for all states to make newborn screening a top priority," said Jennifer L. Howse, PhD, March of Dimes president.
Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2004/07/19/hlbf0719.htm.
