Newborn Screening: Public Health Stories

Each year, millions of babies in the U.S. are routinely screened for certain genetic, endocrine, and metabolic disorders prior to discharge from a hospital or birthing center. This screening is done using a few drops of blood from the newborn's heel. Babies are also screened for hearing loss and, in some hospitals, for critical congenital heart defects.

This newborn screening identifies conditions that can affect a child's long-term health or survival. Early detection, diagnosis, and intervention can prevent death or disability and enable children to reach their full potential.