Universal Implementation of Newborn Screening in India

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Pediatrics
• Genetics

Background:

• Newborn screening programs are established in developed nations.
• India is beginning to adopt dried blood spot screening, but faces challenges.
• Awareness, cost, policy, and politics hinder universal newborn screening in India.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and recommendations for universal newborn screening in India.
• To identify key conditions for screening based on treatability and incidence.
• To propose models for implementing newborn screening programs.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of personal experiences managing public newborn screening programs.
• Literature review using PubMed and Google searches.
• Consultations with field experts.

Main Results:

• Congenital hypothyroidism screening is recommended due to ease of treatment and excellent outcomes.
• Universal screening for glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency is suggested due to high incidence and simple treatment.
• Targeted screening for sickle cell disease is recommended in endemic regions.

Conclusions:

• Universal newborn screening in India faces significant hurdles but is achievable.
• Prioritizing congenital hypothyroidism and G6PD deficiency screening is advised.
• Regional programs in Chandigarh, Goa, and Kerala can serve as implementation models.