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Delhi Newborns Get Free Genetic Disease Screening
2 Oct
Summary
- Program screens 250,000 newborns annually for 56 genetic diseases.
- Mission ANMOL offers free genetic screening since March.
- Genetic testing facilities will expand to other Delhi government hospitals.
Delhi is enhancing newborn healthcare with Mission ANMOL, a program providing free screening for 56 genetic diseases. Launched in March, this initiative targets 250,000 newborns each year, addressing conditions like congenital hypothyroidism and heart defects. The program operates from Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Hospital and is set to expand to other government hospitals citywide.
Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh announced plans to extend Mission ANMOL's reach, aiming to screen every child born in Delhi at no cost. This expansion will increase the number of genetic testing laboratories across the city. The laboratory currently screens about 14,000 samples monthly and also handles referrals for unexplained illnesses or developmental delays.
Beyond newborn screening, the facility offers genetic testing for parents, including HPLC and HBB gene analysis, to assess risks for conditions like thalassemia and sickle cell disease. Early detection through these tests provides crucial time for parents to consult genetic counselors and understand potential outcomes for their child.
