WHO urges scale-up of newborn screening to improve early detection of birth defects
Per the WHO's June 23 statement, the World Health Organization called on countries to expand newborn screening for birth defects, saying early detection and treatment can save lives and reduce lifelong disability for mil.
At a glance
- WHO urged countries to expand newborn screening for birth defects (June 23).
- A new WHO report identifies newborn screening as an opportunity to improve child survival.
- WHO cited congenital hypothyroidism, sickle-cell disease and hearing impairment as treatable if identified early.
VERDICT — CONFIRMED
Per the WHO's June 23 statement, the World Health Organization called on countries to expand newborn screening for birth defects, saying early detection and treatment can save lives and reduce lifelong disability for millions of children. A new WHO report, “Strengthening capacity for newborn screening, diagnosis and management of birth defects,” identifies newborn screening as an opportunity to accelerate child survival, noting conditions such as congenital hypothyroidism, sickle-cell disease and hearing impairment can be treated if caught early.
Key facts on file
- WHO urged countries to expand newborn screening for birth defects (June 23).
- A new WHO report identifies newborn screening as an opportunity to improve child survival.
- WHO cited congenital hypothyroidism, sickle-cell disease and hearing impairment as treatable if identified early.
