New born screening is now an accepted proactive health practice. Infants are screened shortly after birth for genetic, metabolic and infectious disorders that are treatable but difficult to detect clinically. Whole blood samples are collected from the infant's heel on specially designed filter paper and tested for disorders.
In the Philippines however, particularly in communities where there are many informal settlers, parents cannot afford to pay for the newborn screening kit. As per our Dept of Health, only about 35% of new born are screened.
This project will be held in San Vicente, San Pedro, Laguna, Philippines for a four year period for an estimated 2000 babies of indigent parents. When screened after birth, some disorders can be detected and once verified can be treated to prevent complications, reduce mortality, and disabilities.
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