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Experience of the Manitoba Perinatal Screening Program, 1965-85
1Metabolic Diseases and Chemistry Section, Cadham Provincial Laboratory, Winnipeg, Man.
Summary
The Manitoba Perinatal Screening Program effectively detects newborn metabolic disorders using blood and urine tests. This voluntary program demonstrates a significant cost-benefit ratio, highlighting its value in early diagnosis and intervention.
Area of Science:
- Medical Science
- Public Health
- Biochemistry
Background:
- The Manitoba Perinatal Screening Program is a voluntary, centralized initiative.
- It involves medical specialists skilled in diagnosing and managing inborn errors of metabolism.
- The program utilizes filter card specimens for newborn screening.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness and components of the Manitoba Perinatal Screening Program.
- To report on the types and incidence of metabolic disorders detected.
- To assess the cost-effectiveness of the screening program.
Main Methods:
- Collection of filter card blood specimens from newborns at hospital discharge.
- Collection of filter card urine samples from infants around 2 weeks of age.
- Screening of blood for amino acids, thyroxine, galactose, and biotinidase; urine for amino acids, methylmalonic acid, and homocystine.
Main Results:
- High compliance rates: ~100% for blood, 84% for urine specimens.
- Detected 83 metabolic disorder cases between 1965-1985, including hypothyroidism and phenylketonuria.
- Reported a cost of $5.50 per infant screened with a cost:benefit ratio of approximately 7.5:1.
Conclusions:
- The program's components are crucial for effective newborn metabolic disorder screening.
- Early detection through screening offers significant health benefits and cost savings.
- Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein screening is being integrated into the program.