MADERA, Calif. – Experts say that newborn screening, a routine test performed shortly after birth, remains one of the most important tools in protecting infant health – but what makes it so vital?
“Having a baby is one of the most exciting and emotional times of your life,” said Dr. Hailey Nelson, a pediatrician at Valley Children’s. “As a pediatrician and a mom, I know how important it is to have a healthy start. That’s why we’re talking about the newborn screen.”
The screening program in California began in 1966 with testing for a single genetic condition, and it has expanded significantly and now screens for more than 80 genetic and congenital disorders.
The screening typically takes place between 12 and 48 hours after birth. A healthcare provider collects a small blood sample from the baby’s heel and sends it to a state-contracted laboratory for analysis.
“It’s often considered baby’s first test,” Dr. Nelson said. “It’s very simple and only involves a few drops of blood from your baby’s heel, but can screen for more than 80 conditions.”
Today, about 1 in every 600 babies tested in California is diagnosed with one of these conditions through the screening. While the process is simple, its impact can be life-changing.
Dr. Nelson says the test allows doctors to detect conditions that may not be apparent at birth, enabling early intervention before symptoms develop.
“This is important because babies can look healthy, but we’re able to detect and identify conditions early and treat before symptoms even arise,” she said.
Without early screening, some conditions may go undetected until irreversible damage has occurred.
“When these conditions present themselves later on, and if we aren’t able to screen and detect them early, children often suffer from complications that are unnecessary. We’re not able to go back in time,” Dr. Nelson said. “That’s why it’s so important to do this test on day one.”
Although the program is required by state law, parents or legal guardians may decline newborn screening if it conflicts with their religious beliefs or practices, according to the California Department of Public Health. However, health officials emphasize that the test is a critical safeguard for infant health.
“Most newborn screens come back normal, and that’s a wonderful reassurance,” Dr. Nelson said. “If your child’s newborn screen is flagged, that notifies the pediatrician that further testing is needed to see if they have a diagnosis that requires intervention.”
Dr. Nelson encourages parents to stay engaged and, if they have any concerns, to communicate with their pediatrician.
“We’re here to help you take care of your child starting from day one,” she said.
To learn more about the California Newborn Screening Program, click here.
