Why Get Tested?
Newborn screening detects metabolic disorders that can cause developmental issues and lifelong complications such as mental retardation, physical disability and in some instances, death, if it is left untreated.
Scientific literature suggests that approximately 2-5% of newborns are affected by genetic disorders and congenital abnormalities which includes metabolic disorders. Although metabolic disorders are individually rare, but when taken cumulatively, the incidence rate is quite high.1
For example, in Malaysia, collectively about 1 in every 1,500 individuals is expected to be affected with a metabolic disorder.Screening your newborn will facilitate early treatment and prevent long term detrimental effects to your baby’s health.2
Scientific literature suggests that approximately 2-5% of newborns are affected by genetic disorders and congenital abnormalities which includes metabolic disorders. Although metabolic disorders are individually rare, but when taken cumulatively, the incidence rate is quite high.1
For example, in Malaysia, collectively about 1 in every 1,500 individuals is expected to be affected with a metabolic disorder.Screening your newborn will facilitate early treatment and prevent long term detrimental effects to your baby’s health.2
References
- A.E.H. Emery, D.L. Rimoin (Eds.), Principles and practice of medical genetics, 2nd ed., vols. 1–2, Churchill Livingstone, Edinburgh (1990).
- Malaysia Metabolic Society http://www.mms.my/article.php?aid=3 Last accessed on 15 September 2016
1 in 1,500
is expected to be affected with IEM 2
