Newborn+Screening+IBD

=Universal Newborn Screening (UNBS) =

__**What is it? **__

[[image:taking_blood_print.jpg width="325" height="177" align="right"]]

 * UBNS is a state-based public health system that tests every newborn infant for serious or life-threatening disorders before symptoms begin to appear.

=**__Why is it done?__** =
 * Early detection and treatment can help prevent intellectual and physical disabilities and life-threatening illnesses.

__**How is it done?**__
 * Newborn screening usually begins with a blood test 24 to 48 hours after the baby is born.
 * The test is performed by pricking the baby's heel to collect a few drops of blood. The blood is then placed on a special piece of paper and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
 * A hearing test involves placing a tiny earphone in the baby's ear and measuring his or her response to sound.


 * __What is required by U.S. la____w?[[image:one_foot_at_a_time.gif width="352" height="107" align="right" caption="Click to see a video of a test" link="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PFpsmWUsXDg&feature=related"]]__ **
 * ﻿All newborn infants //must// be screened.
 * All states must screen for at least 21 disorders.
 * If wanted, supplemental screenings may take place.


 * __Who covers the cost? __ **
 * The cost varies on state laws but usually the first testing is free.
 * If parents wish to do any further testing (supplemental screenings) it costs money and their insurance should cover it.

=__**Are results reliable?**__ = = =
 * They usually are. However, there have been some cases where babies were tested and said to be healthy when actually, they had a rare disorder.
 * But if the results of the first test are abnormal or unclear, a second screening is required.

= =

__**Bibliographies**__**:**
1. "Newborn Screening." //Genetics Home Reference//. U.S. National Library of Medicine, 6 June 2011. Web. 9 June 2011. .

2. "Newborn Screening." //MedlinePlus//. National Institutes of Health, 1 June 2011. Web. 9 June 2011. .