Newborn screening is a public health service done in each U.S. state. Every newborn is tested for a group of health disorders that aren't otherwise found at birth. With a simple blood test, doctors can check for rare genetic, hormone-related, and metabolic conditions that can cause serious health problems.

What are included in newborn screening?

Newborn screening refers to a set of special tests, including blood, hearing, and heart screening, done to one- to two-day-old infants, usually before they leave the hospital. This is to check for any serious health disorders that do not show signs at birth.

What is the purpose of newborn screening?

Newborn screening identifies conditions that can affect a child's long-term health or survival. Early detection, diagnosis, and intervention can prevent death or disability and enable children to reach their full potential.