No. Newborns have been screened for inherited disorders in the U.S. since the early 1960s. Every state currently maintains a screening program, but most states screen for no more than ten disorders and some for as few as four.
MoreWhat are metabolic and other inherited disorder?
Metabolic and other inherited disorders are flaws in body chemistry. For example, metabolic disorders can cause newborns to have difficulty processing food, placing them at risk for serious health complications such as mental retardation, coma...
MoreWhat experience and qualifications does PerkinElmer Genetics have in performing supplemental newborn screenings and interpreting the results?
PerkinElmer Genetics has analyzed the samples of over 4.5 million newborns since 1994; more than any other laboratory in the U.S. Our staff is highly trained and committed to providing accurate and reliable results to help assure the health of...
MoreWhen will I know the results of the screening?
The testing will be complete approximately three business days after the sample arrives at the PerkinElmer Genetics laboratory. Your child’s physician will be notified immediately of any abnormal results by telephone. Results are available to...
MoreWhy would I have my baby tested?
Newborns may not show obvious signs that they have an inherited disorder until after health complications have developed. Early identification can allow your physician to start specialized medical treatment that may improve the long-term health...
MoreHow is my baby tested?
A healthcare professional will draw a small sample of blood by pricking your baby’s heel. The sample is placed on the absorbent filter paper located in every StepOne® packet and sent to PerkinElmer Genetics’ laboratory for analysis.
MoreHow many disorders does StepOne® panel include?
StepOne® can identify the presence of more than 50 inherited disorders, including Cystic Fibrosis, Maple Syrup Urine Disease, and Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia as well as many lesser-known disorders your state may not include in its screening...
MoreIf my baby has a metabolic disorder, could my other children have it as well?
This question can best be answered by your physician or a trained genetic counselor. Many families seek genetic counseling to better understand why their baby has a particular disorder and to learn if any other family members could be at risk...
More