Egypt launches 2nd phase of screening newborns for genetic disorders

CAIRO – 18 October 2021: The Ministry of Health and Population announced Monday launching the second phase of screening newborns for genetic disorders.

The first phase consisted of screening babies born at public hospitals. The second one expands the scope of the measure to encompass babies born at university hospitals, private hospitals, and healthcare units.

Spokesperson of the ministry Khaled Megahed noted that when the screening was launched, it began with two tests. But now, it comprises 19.  

Those are congenital hypothyroidism; hemolytic anemia; congenital adrenal hyperplasia; cystic fibrosis; hereditary hyperlipidemia; neil ketonuria; tetrahydropytrine deficiency; elevation of isovaleric acid in the blood; elevation of propionic acid/methylmalone in the blood; maple urine disease; elevated blood tyrosine - type 1; high galactose in the blood; high homocysteine ​​in urine; high arginine in the blood; increased citrulline in the blood; deficiency of the carbamoyl ornithine transporter; oxidation of fatty acids; and, biotinidase deficiency.