Newborn Screening for Six Conditions in Morocco
Author Information
Author(s): El Janahi Sara, Filali Mounir, Boudar Zakia, Akhattab Amina, El Jaoudi Rachid, Al Idrissi Najib, Dini Nouzha, Nejjari Chakib, Yahyaoui Raquel, Lloyd-Puryear Michele A., Ghazal Hassan, Orsini Joseph
Primary Institution: Mohammed VI University of Sciences and Health, Casablanca, Morocco
Hypothesis
This study aimed to demonstrate the feasibility of integrating newborn screening into a diagnostic laboratory for routine analysis.
Conclusion
The study highlights the importance of newborn screening programs in preventing morbidity and mortality in Moroccan newborns.
Supporting Evidence
- 72 newborns were identified with one of the six pathological conditions.
- Hemoglobinopathies were the most prevalent, identified in 47 newborns.
- G6PD deficiency affected 16 newborns.
- CF was found in one case.
- Five newborns tested positive for CAH.
- Two newborns tested positive for CH.
- One newborn tested positive for PKU.
Takeaway
This study looked at how testing newborns for certain health problems can help catch issues early and keep babies healthy.
Methodology
A retrospective investigation was conducted analyzing 5511 newborn blood samples collected via heel-prick sampling and tested for six severe conditions.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the limited number of samples and the reliance on private clinics for sample collection.
Limitations
The study faced challenges such as insufficient awareness among healthcare professionals and logistical resources, which may affect the effectiveness of the newborn screening program.
Participant Demographics
Full-term newborns from various health institutions in Morocco.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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