Celebrating International Neonatal Screening Day: A Milestone for Newborn Health

On June 28, we join the global community in celebrating International Neonatal Screening Day (INSD), a significant observance dedicated to raising awareness about the vital importance of newborn screening. This day, supported by numerous health organizations worldwide, screening and medical experts, patient organisations and other stakeholders, highlights the remarkable advancements and ongoing efforts to ensure that every newborn receives timely and life-saving screening.

Newborn screening stands as one of the most successful public health interventions implemented in the last century. By detecting serious and potentially fatal conditions early, provides a crucial opportunity for timely treatment and management, drastically improving the health outcomes for countless infants. Among the conditions screened, Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID) has shown a significant impact when identified and diagnosed early, offering babies the chance for curative treatments that can save their lives.

Johan Prevot, IPOPI Executive Director and co-founder of Screen4Rare, shared his insights on this special day: “On this International Neonatal Screening Day, we have much to celebrate. Newborn screening is one of the most successful public health interventions ever implemented and can simply be life-saving. We have seen this first-hand with SCID newborn screening which enables crucial timely access to curative treatment. Yet much remains to be done. Whilst the number of countries implementing SCID newborn screening is increasing, much remains to be done to ensure babies born with SCID can all have timely access to diagnosis and life-saving treatment. Together, let’s call for equitable access to newborn screening!”

The journey of newborn screening has been one of incredible progress, but the mission is far from complete. While the number of countries implementing SCID newborn screening continues to grow, disparities still exist. Many regions around the world lack the infrastructure and resources to provide universal screening, leaving some infants at risk of missing out on early diagnosis and treatment. It is imperative that we work together to bridge these gaps, by sharing knowledge, and information to ensure that every baby, regardless of where they are born, has access to this critical health service.

As we mark this important day, let us celebrate the successes achieved in the realm of newborn screening and renew our commitment to expanding these essential services. By advocating for equitable access to screening and supporting initiatives that bring this life-saving intervention to every corner of the globe, we can help ensure that all babies have the healthiest possible start in life.

Together, we can make a difference in the lives of newborns worldwide.

Read the press release here.