Newborn Screening Is Important for Your Baby
September 15, 2017
Since 1963, newborns in most states in the United States have been screened and have received treatment for a disease before symptoms appear. Today, newborns in most states are screened for at least 29 conditions within the first few days of birth. Ten states test for 50 or more conditions. With just a few drops of blood, newborn screenings detect treatable conditions in about 1 in 300 babies born each year, a total of about 12,500 cases each year.
Screening occurs within the first 24 to 48 hours after delivery. A “heel stick” provides blood drops that are collected on sterile and absorbent filter paper. Blood screenings can help analyze disorders including metabolic disorders, hormonal issues, blood disorders and more. Most states also include a hearing test as a part of the newborn screening process.
Newborn screening can literally save a child’s life, so there is no reason not to have them performed. The procedure is very simple, and your team at Huron Regional Medical Center will perform the screenings as part of the standard care and teaching provided for each baby born at HRMC. As far as your baby’s discomfort is concerned, the simple prick to his or her heel is minor in comparison to the lifelong suffering that might be endured if a rare disease is indeed present. If you are the parents of a baby on the way, we encourage you to talk to your healthcare provider about newborn screenings. This can help make you feel more comfortable with the entire process.
From conception throughout your child’s life, HRMC is here to provide quality health care close to home. Our delivering physicians will be there for you from your first appointment, your 20-week growth ultrasound and through delivery. Once your little one is delivered into the world, a pediatrician and family practice physicians can guide you through your child’s life and help keep your miracle healthy. Through each phase of life, HRMC is here for you and your family. To find a physician at HRMC, visit Find a Doc.
Source: babysfirsttest.org
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