Updated: 09/28/2009 8:11 PM KSTP.com | Print |  Email
By: Becky Nahm

Mayo: Family Pushes for Expanded Newborn Testing

There are tests that can screen newborn babies for dozens of genetic disorders. The goal is to diagnose the diseases early and increase chances of successful treatment.

Minnesota already screens for 54 genetic disorders--the entire panel recommended by the American College of Medical Genetics. However there are diseases not included in the screening.

In this week's Medical Edge, the Mayo Clinic shared the story of a family who lost a little girl to a genetic disease and is now working to expand newborn testing programs.

There is controversy about the screenings. The issue has been debated at the state capitol for years. And, in August, several groups threatened to move forward with a lawsuit. The groups, including the Citizens' Council on Health Care and the Campaign for Liberty, claimed the state is not doing enough to let parents know they can opt out of the tests.