Kerala government to start comprehensive screening programme to detect birth defects

Catching them young is the ideal way to treat developmental disorders that affect children. The government of Kerala is all set to show the way to ensure good and quality standard of living for every child in the state!

The Universal Comprehensive Newborn Screening Programme (CNS) is one such initiatives. Under this, newborns will be screened for developmental disorders within 48 hours of birth.

Kerala has a low infant mortality rate and the state is determined to focus on providing quality life for children in the state.

Newborns will be screened under four parameters. These include visible birth defects, functional birth defects, metabolic defects and neuro-developmental defects.

If a newborn is diagnosed with any health defects, it will be given treatment. Regular check-ups will be done, and parents will have to ensure they do monthly follow ups.

An expert says that premature babies are usually kept in Intensive Care Units (ICU), and they are provided with a high flow of oxygen supply. This can lead to many disorders. In order to prevent this, screening is important.

The Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) is a central government scheme to the enhance quality of lives of children. This scheme will also be implemented in Kerala.

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