Q: DO we have to do the newborn screening on our baby?
Ans: Great question. The newborn screening screens for congenital hypothyroid- which can cause mental retardation and is 100% preventable when found in this screening.
It also screens for PKU (phenylketonuria)- an inborn error that can cause mental problems and is preventable with diet changes). The newborn screen also looks for 35 other inborn errors of metabolism (uncommon but common enough we can now screen for them). The test is best done after 48 hours of age and several feeds.
Now do you HAVE to do it- it is your child and your choice to choose not to get it. I always support parental choice and intuition. Once you understand why we do something and what it is looking for and you are at peace with your choice and accept the potential risk of not doing it- then it is fine.
The other 35 inborn errors we screen for do show up if there is a problem. As healthcare providers we tend to push the screening procedures to prevent illness before it happens. As a parent myself, I support parental wisdom.
Great question. Thanks for asking.
We love helping improve the health of your family.
Dr Franz