Each year, thousands of babies are born with rare but serious medical conditions that may not be visible at birth. But thanks to newborn screening, many of these conditions can be detected early—often before symptoms appear—giving babies the best possible start in life.

What Is Newborn Screening?

Newborn screening is a routine process that takes place shortly after birth, usually within the first 24 to 48 hours. It involves a few quick, simple tests that can identify a wide range of genetic, endocrine, and metabolic disorders—many of which, if left untreated, can lead to severe health problems or even death. Every U.S. state has a newborn screening program. 

Newborn screening typically includes:

• A blood spot test (heel prick) to check for certain genetic and metabolic conditions
  
  
• A hearing test to detect potential hearing loss
  
  
• A pulse oximetry test to measure oxygen levels and screen for critical congenital heart defects

Why Is Newborn Screening Important?

Screening newborns for illnesses is important because early detection can be life-saving. Many of the conditions newborn screening looks for aren’t immediately obvious, but if they’re caught early  they can often be treated or managed effectively.

For example:

• A baby diagnosed early with phenylketonuria (PKU) can be placed on a special diet to prevent intellectual disability.
• Newborns with congenital hypothyroidism can receive hormone replacement therapy to ensure normal growth and development.
• Identifying a critical congenital heart defect early can mean the difference between life and death.
  
  

What Diseases and Conditions are Included in the Newborn Screening Tests? 

Conditions included in newborn screenings can include, but are not limited to: 

• cystic fibrosis
• hemoglobinopathies such as sickle cell anemia
• spinal muscular distrophy
• hearing loss
• heart defects
• immunodeficiencies
  
  

Newborn Screenings are Quick, Safe & Essential 

Most parents barely notice the screening process, but its impact can last a lifetime. While the exact conditions screened for may vary by state or country, the goal is the same: to catch serious health issues in infants before they become emergencies.

How You Can Help

September is Newborn Screening Awareness Month. Help spread the word about this vital public health program:

• If you’re an expectant parent, ask your doctor about your state’s newborn screening process.
• Share information with family and friends—especially those expecting a baby.
• Support organizations that advocate for early detection and treatment of rare childhood conditions.

A few drops of blood, a quick hearing test, and a simple oxygen check can truly change a life. Let's ensure that the newborns in our lives receive their screenings. 

Further reading: 

Tummy Time Benefits and When & How to Start

Infant Eye Tracking Tips

Infant Milestones by Month

Early Childhood Communication Development Milestones

Infant Mobility Milestones

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