The Department of Health announced on Tuesday that the IWK Health Centre’s Maritime Newborn Screening service has begun screening newborns in New Brunswick for spinal muscular atrophy.
According to specialists, it’s a genetic neuromuscular disorder that disrupts muscle function and may cause significant health challenges.
Officials say early diagnosis is essential for initiating treatment quickly, which can lead to substantial improvements in a child’s health and developmental progress.
“We are committed to enhancing early diagnosis and care for our youngest residents,” said Health Minister Bruce Fitch.
“This screening, done at birth, will provide early diagnosis and intervention, ultimately improving outcomes for affected infants.”
After birth, hospital staff or midwives gather samples and send them to the IWK Health Centre in Halifax for analysis. If spinal muscular atrophy is suspected, additional tests will be conducted to verify the diagnosis and explore the most effective treatment options.
This service is also utilized by residents of Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia.
Spinal muscular atrophy is among the 25 conditions included in the Maritime Newborn Screening program.
