AGA KHAN UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL EXPANDS ACCESS TO NEWBORN TESTING

Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi (AKUH, N) expands newborn screening service to improve the early detection and intervention for congenital conditions in newborns.

The new service complements the hospital’s comprehensive mother and childcare services, which include specialised obstetricians & gynaecologists, Paediatric specialists, neonatal facilities, and specialised diagnostics services.

The initial panel of tests will diagnose congenital hypothyroidism, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, cystic fibrosis, galactosemia and sickle cell disease through a minimally invasive test done between 48 and 72 hours after birth.  The screening process, which takes a few minutes, involves collecting a few drops of blood from the baby’s heel for analysis.

“Newborn screening gives us an important opportunity to identify babies who may be at risk and intervene before preventable harm occurs,” said Dr Daniel Maina, Assistant Professor at Aga Khan University Medical College and a Consultant Pathologist at Aga Khan University Hospital Nairobi.

Early diagnosis allows healthcare teams to conduct confirmatory tests and begin appropriate treatment before serious complications develop. Depending on the condition identified, early intervention can protect brain development, support healthy growth and reduce the risk of life-threatening illness.

“The expansion of our newborn screening service reflects our commitment to preventive, patient-centred care and to protecting health from the earliest stages of life,” said Rashid Khalani, Chief Executive Officer, Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi.

Parents are encouraged to discuss newborn screening with their maternity or paediatric care teams and ensure that their baby is screened within the recommended period, even when the baby appears healthy.

“By investing in early detection and strengthening access to specialised diagnostic services, we are helping families receive timely answers and giving more children the strongest possible start in life,” added Dr. Maina