DOH reiterates important role of newborn screening

October 10, 2023 | 12:00am

CEBU, Philippines — Newborn screening (NBS) plays a vital in identifying and resolving any congenital disorder and other serious health complications that could impede child’s healthy development.

Jaika Jel Besira, Family Health Section Program Development Officer of the Department of Health Central Visayas Center for Health Development, said they want to ensure that newborns have healthy life through collaborations with local government units and health facilities.

Besira, in a statement, highlighted the accessibility of NBS at Barangay Health Stations or nearby healthcare facilities staffed by trained NBS healthcare professionals.

She urged expectant mothers to attend prenatal visits, deliver their babies at licensed facilities and avail NBS services.

She said that a small blood sample is collected from the baby’s heel for NBS, with results typically available within two weeks at the Newborn Screening Center.

Besira explained that a negative result indicates no disease was detected, while a positive result requires consultation with a doctor or a visit to the nearest Confirmatory Center for treatment.

NBS is cost-free, simple procedure fully covered by PhilHealth to identify congenital disorders in babies. If left untreated, these disorders can lead to mental retardation or even death.

To enhance infant care, DOH introduced the Expanded Newborn Screening (ENBS) through Administrative Order 2014-0045A.

This expansion increased the number of prevalent detectable diseases from six to 28 including Endocrine Disorders, Hemoglobinopathies, Amino Acid Disorders, Fatty Acid Oxidation Disorders, Organic Acid Disorders, Urea Cycle Defects Disorders, among others, in which can be effectively managed with early detection and prompt treatment.

DOH said it is determined to achieve a minimum of 95% coverage for Central Visayas in implementing newborn screening programs, in pursuit to a healthy, resillient Pilipinas where Bawat Buhay Mahalaga. — (FREEMAN)