WHO warns of increased birth defects, urges expanded newborn screening.

Early diagnosis can save lives, prevent lifelong disability — Tedros

By Chioma Obinna

On Tuesday, the World Health Organization (WHO) warned of the increasing global burden of birth defects and urged nations to broaden newborn screening programs to enhance early detection and treatment access.

In its newly released report, WHO identified newborn screening as a key strategy to lower child mortality and avert lifelong disabilities stemming from congenital conditions.

The report, titled Strengthening Capacity for Newborn Screening, Diagnosis and Management of Birth Defects, estimates that about eight million infants are born with birth defects annually, and these conditions now represent nearly eight percent of deaths among children under five worldwide.

WHO cautioned that millions of children—particularly in low‑ and middle‑income countries—are diagnosed too late or not at all, even though many conditions can be effectively managed when detected early.

The report noted that conditions such as congenital hypothyroidism, sickle‑cell disease, hearing impairment, and metabolic disorders can be successfully treated when identified shortly after birth.

Speaking about the report, WHO Director‑General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the urgency of action, stating that early diagnosis is essential for giving every child a healthy start.

“No child should miss the chance for a healthy future because a congenital condition was not detected early enough. Countries are showing that newborn screening can save lives, prevent disability and give newborns the best opportunity to fulfill their potential.”

The agency noted that the gap in screening capacity is stark, with some countries able to screen newborns for over 50 conditions, while others have not yet established any program.

It observed that birth defects are accounting for a growing share of child deaths in regions such as sub‑Saharan Africa and South Asia, partly because of progress in reducing deaths from infectious diseases.

To close this gap, WHO urges governments to incorporate newborn screening, diagnosis, and treatment into routine healthcare and universal health coverage programs, beginning with priority conditions that reflect each nation’s burden.

The report also highlighted progress in countries such as Uganda, India, Brazil, and the Philippines, where newborn screening has been successfully integrated into health systems, enhancing early intervention and long‑term care for affected children.