THE importance of neonatal (newborn) screening and how it can help prevent the development of diseases, were discussed by leading local and international experts Thursday at the second Sidra Symposia Series titled “Neonatal Screening of Genetic Diseases and Child Development”. According to the latest studies and international best practices, screening of newborn babies for metabolic diseases, which is performed through a simple blood test, should be done within the first 24-72 hours after birth. There is a growing need for screening facilities in doctors' offices and clinics, as well as in hospitals to ensure such tests could be performed regularly. Dr. Joachim Dudenhausen, Medical Advisor and Head of Medical Staff Services at Sidra Medical and Research Center, and a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at WCMC-Q. He stressed the importance of screening newborns for genetic diseases. “Early diagnosis of inborn errors, such as diabetes, can mean that these genetic abnormalities can then be prevented from manifesting and developing. This can be done through increased awareness of lifestyle choices and the ways in which these can be applied from a young age in order to prevent the development of metabolic related diseases in the future,” he said. “Neonatal screening is the best way to treat and prevent clinical manifestation from genetic diseases and Qatar is an excellent location for research on genetic abnormalities and how these can be recognized and treated.” Commenting on the prominence of this topic in the medical community, and the importance of raising awareness, Dr. Mohamed Al-Thani, Director of the Public Health Department at the Supreme Council of Health, said “neonatal screening should be mandated for all newborns in every hospital and relevant medical facility in Qatar. This screening process can help to combat and prevent illnesses that are prevalent in our country, such as diabetes, metabolic disorders, hypothyroidism, and jaundice. This simple procedure can create a healthier society, helping parents and families to understand and implement straight forward lifestyle choices that can prevent the child from developing these diseases later in life. I would very much like to see a national program from the Supreme Council of Health to ensure that all newborns are given the best start possible in life.” “Neonatal screening would be acceptable for newborns if supported by evidence to substantiate its validity in Qatar. This screening process can help to combat and prevent illnesses that are prevalent in our country, such as diabetes, metabolic disorders, hypothyroidism, and jaundice. This simple procedure, if proven effective, can create a healthier society, helping parents and families to understand and implement straightforward lifestyle choices that can prevent the child from developing these diseases later in life. Once we have proven that this procedure has a positive impact on health, I would very much like to see a national program from the Supreme Council of Health to ensure that all newborns are given the best start possible in life.” Dr. Tawfeg Ben-Omran, Head of Qatar Medical Genetics Center at Hamad Medical Corporation,said increased awareness through family education, newborn screening, family screening, initiation of effective premarital and preconception counseling and pre-implantation genetic diagnosis are imperative in early detection and treatment of inborn errors of metabolism. — SG
