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Screening of newborns in Belarus for uncommon genetic disorders commences

Newborn screenings currently focus on five harmful diseases, but plans are underway to broaden the scope substantially.

Screening of newborns for uncommon genetic disorders will commence in Belarus
Screening of newborns for uncommon genetic disorders will commence in Belarus

Screening of newborns in Belarus for uncommon genetic disorders commences

In Belarus, the screening for inherited diseases in newborns is set to undergo a significant expansion in the near future. Currently, all newborn babies are tested for five inherited diseases: phenylketonuria, congenital hypothyroidism, cystic fibrosis, galactosemia, and congenital adrenal hyperplasia. However, this number is expected to increase to 12 in the coming period.

This expansion will enable the detection of rare genetic disorders at the earliest stages, allowing for timely initiation of treatment for these disorders. The goal is to prevent severe disabilities or even death, aligning with WHO and European recommendations.

Clinical microbiologist and surgeon Karan Raj warns against kissing newborns on the face or hands due to the risk of infection. Newborns' immune systems are still weak and not fully developed, increasing their susceptibility to infections. It is crucial to maintain strict hygiene practices when handling newborns to prevent the spread of infections.

Bacterial infections caused by group B streptococcus pose a significant threat to newborns. This bacteria can cause pneumonia, blood infections, and sepsis in a baby. Any infection, even a minor one, can seriously harm a newborn's health, particularly in the first three months of life.

The herpes virus, usually harmless in adults, can be life-threatening for a newborn. The herpes virus can severely damage internal organs in a newborn, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strict hygiene practices.

While the specific diseases to be included in the expanded screening by 2030 have not been confirmed, many countries, including those in Eastern Europe like Belarus, have been progressively expanding their newborn screening programs to include more inherited metabolic and genetic disorders.

By 2030, Belarus may likely be planning to expand its newborn screening panel to cover an increasing number of treatable inherited diseases. This could involve integrating newer technologies like tandem mass spectrometry and DNA-based screening methods.

For accurate and detailed current data on Belarus specifically, consulting Belarus's Ministry of Health announcements, national health strategies, or specialized reports from regional public health authorities would be necessary.

To ensure the health and safety of newborns, it is recommended to avoid passing them around among family members and to maintain strict hygiene practices when handling them.

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