From newborn screening to genomic medicine: challenges and suggestions on how to incorporate genomic newborn screening in public health programs

Abstract

Newborn screening (NBS) programs are considered among the most effective and efficient measures of secondary prevention in medicine. In individuals with medical conditions, genomic sequencing has become available in routine healthcare, and results from exome or genome sequencing may help to guide treatment decisions. Genomic sequencing in healthy or asymptomatic newborns (gNBS) is feasible and reveals clinically relevant disorders that are not detectable by biochemical analyses alone. However, the implementation of genomic sequencing in population-based screening programs comes with technological, clinical, ethical, and psychological issues, as well as economic and legal topics. Here, we address and discuss the most important questions to be considered when implementing gNBS, such as "which categories of results should be reported" or "which is the best time to return results". We also offer ideas on how to balance expected benefits against possible harms to children and their families.

Keywords: ELSA (ethical, legal, and social aspects); genomic medicine; genomic newborn screening; public health; return of results.

Figure 1

An approach to newborn screening and genomic medicine, considering different categories of results and the best time to return results to the families.