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Office of Newborn Screening

50 Years of Newborn Screening!

This year, the nation celebrates 50 years of Newborn Screening! The first newborn screening test was developed in 1963 by Dr. Robert Guthrie to test for phenylketonuria, commonly known as PKU. Since then, scientists have developed more tests to screen newborns for a variety of severe conditions.

The first state to require testing was Massachusetts and many states soon followed suit. The State of Arizona currently screens for 29 disorders, including hearing loss. Throughout the year, we will celebrate this milestone by sharing resources about newborn screening, links to other organizations, and personal stories from families impacted by newborn screening. Check back frequently to see what has been added!

May

Cystic Fibrosis Awareness

May is Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month. Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disorder of the mucus glands that affects the lungs and digestive system. Left untreated, CF can cause serious health problems which can lead to early death. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly prolong and enhance the quality of life of those with CF. All babies born in Arizona are tested for CF as part of their first newborn screening.

  • Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month – Helpful information and resources from the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, highlighting several ways to raise awareness of CF.
  • Baby’s First Test: Cystic Fibrosis – Helpful information about CF, including follow-up testing, treatment and services for those with CF.
  • Great Strides – An annual nationwide event where hundreds of thousands of walkers come together to raise money for CF research.
  • Adding Tomorrows – Keith and Kennedy are siblings with CF. Watch their video and learn about how they live with CF.

Better Hearing and Speech

May is Better Hearing and Speech Month (BHSM). Hearing loss can affect a child’s ability to develop communication, language, and social skills. The earlier children with hearing loss start getting services, the more likely they are to reach their full potential. In Arizona, nearly all babies are screened for hearing loss at their birth hospitals. If a baby fails a hearing screen, a repeat screen should be done as soon as possible.

April

Phenylketonuria (PKU) and Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD) are conditions characterized by the body's inability to break down certain proteins. Early detection and treatment of these disorders can save affected babies' lives and prevent irreversible damage from occurring. Check out the links below for more information about PKU and MSUD. Also, the Arizona Network for PKU and Allied Disorders (ANPAD) is a local support network organizing seminars, camps, fundraising and other community events for families to communicate and learn from each other.

PKU

MSUD

March

Preparing for and knowing how to respond to emergencies is important for all families, and is especially vital for families of children who have been diagnosed with disorders. By doing things like preparing a plan, making an emergency kit, and staying informed about possible emergency situations, families can deal with disasters much more effectively when they do occur.

February

February 14th is Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Day.

January

Check out 50 Years of Saving Babies’ Lives for information, resources and stories about newborn screening!