Newborn Screening

The newborn screening test, often called the PKU test, is a program for newborn babies that tests for a variety of serious disorders and diseases. These diseases are generally treatable if detected early; however, children with these disorders do not show any signs of them until brain, liver, or other organ damage has already started to occur. That’s why a screening program is necessary, because the disease is not clinically detectable at first. By detecting the disease early and starting treatment, in most cases death, mental retardation, and/or physical disabilities can be avoided or lessened. The majority of these diseases are metabolic diseases, a genetic condition in which the body cannot correctly break down and process certain sugars, proteins, or fats. In many cases, treatment is as simple as modifying the person