Why is newborn screening so important?

Newborn Screening is used to test for developmental, genetic, and metabolic disorders that would not otherwise be detected, such as Krabbe disease.

Newborn screening plays a critical role in detecting and treating genetic disorders like Krabbe and other Leukodystrophies in time to prevent irreversible damage and even death. Newborn screening varies by state, and we want to make sure every parent is provided the opportunity to make fully informed decisions around their child’s newborn screening.

For many of the screenable diseases there is no cure, but early detection and intervention can halt disease progression before the irreversible damage is done.  Newborn screening saves lives, and we believe that it is a must that comprehensive universal newborn screening is implemented to cover all screenable diseases so that every newborn has a chance at a full and healthy life.

Supplemental Newborn Screening is Available!

Because no state screens for every recommended disease, you can purchase supplemental newborn screening to ensure your child undergoes the most comprehensive screening available.  PerkinElmer Genetics offers various packages:

• Lysosomal Storage Disorders Only (includes Krabbe)
• Severe Combined Immunodeficieny Only (SCID)
• OneStep (includes over 50 metabolic and genetic disorders, the six Lysosomal Storage Disorders, and SCID)

Visit PerkinElmer and Hunter’s Hope to learn more.

You can also review the Supplemental Newborn Screening brochure below for additional information:

Supplemental Newborn Screening Tests Brochure