WHITE PLAINS, N.Y., JULY 12, 2005 -- Expanded newborn screening
is now required by law in dozens of states, but most infants
still are not covered by the full panel of 29 tests recommended
by experts, according to the March of Dimes 2005 state-by-state
report card on newborn screening. The March of Dimes recommends
that every baby born in the United States receive screening for
a uniform panel of 29 disorders that includes metabolic
conditions and hearing deficiency. All of these disorders can be
successfully managed or treated to prevent severe consequences,
if diagnosed early. "Parents need to know that the extent of
newborn screening for serious and treatable disorders depends
entirely on the state in which their baby is born," says Dr.
Jennifer L. Howse, president of the March of Dimes. "For infants
affected with these conditions, the tests can mean the
difference between life and death, or health and lifelong
disability." As of June 1, 2005, 23 states (see attached list
and map) have expanded their newbo