Need and Viability of Newborn Screening Programme in India: Report from a Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Pediatrics
• Health Policy

Background:

• India, with the world's second-largest population, lacks a national newborn screening program.
• A pilot program was implemented in Udupi district, South India, to assess the need and viability of a national initiative.
• Six key disorders were targeted based on funding and pediatrician recommendations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence of selected newborn disorders in Udupi district.
• To conduct a cost-effectiveness analysis of implementing a newborn screening program in India.
• To provide evidence supporting the establishment of a national newborn screening program.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a pilot newborn screening program in Udupi district.
• Selection of six target disorders based on feasibility and clinical recommendations.
• Conducting a cost-effectiveness analysis comparing disease-related financial loss to screening/treatment costs.

Main Results:

• Observed incidence rates for the six screened disorders were documented.
• The financial burden of untreated preventable diseases significantly exceeds the costs of screening, diagnosis, and treatment.
• The pilot program demonstrated the feasibility and necessity of newborn screening.

Conclusions:

• Newborn screening is a cost-effective public health intervention for India.
• The financial losses incurred due to preventable infant diseases underscore the urgent need for a national screening program.
• Implementing a national newborn screening program is a justifiable and essential health policy for India.