September Spotlight:The Power of Newborn Screening Awareness Month.

By Hamu Madzedze

Online Journalist-Zimbabwe

September marks Newborn Screening Awareness Month,highlighting the role of early diagnostic tests in ensuring the health and well-being of newborns.

Conducted within the first few days of life newborn screening involves simple tests that detect genetic,hormonal and metabolic disorders that may not be visible at birth.

Early detection through these screenings enables timely interventions ,preventing severe health complications,developmental delays and even death.

History/Background

Newborn Screening Awareness Month originated in the United States in 2008 designated by the American Academy of Pediatrics(AAP) and other health organisations. The month-long observance aims to educate parents ,healthcare providers and the general public about the importance of newborn screening.

Purpose of Newborn Screening Awareness month

Raise awareness about newborn screening and its benefits

Educate parents and caregivers about the screening process and its importance.

Promote timely testing and intervention for detectable conditions.

Improve access to newborn screening services

Encourage advocacy and support for families affected by conditions detectable through newborn screening.

Conditions Detected

Genetic disorders such as Phenylketonuria( PKU),sickle cell disease

Hormonal disorders for example congenital hypothyroidism

Metabolic disorders such as Galactosemia

Hearing loss

Critical congenital heart disease (CCHD).

Impact

Newborn screening has significantly improved health outcomes for millions of babies worldwide ,enabling early intervention and treatment,prevention of severe health complications,reduced morbidity and mortality and improved quality life.