1
|
Belaramani KM, Fung CW, Kwok AMK, Lee SYR, Yau EKC, Luk HM, Mak CM, Yeung MCW, Ngan OMY. Public and Healthcare Provider Receptivity toward the Retention of Dried Blood Spot Cards and Their Usage for Extended Genetic Testing in Hong Kong. Int J Neonatal Screen 2023; 9:45. [PMID: 37606482 PMCID: PMC10443280 DOI: 10.3390/ijns9030045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Dried blood spot (DBS) cards from newborn screening (NBS) programs represent a wealth of biological data. They can be stored easily for a long time, have the potential to support medical and public health research, and have secondary usages such as quality assurance and forensics, making it the ideal candidate for bio-banking. However, worldwide policies vary with regard to the duration of storage of DBS cards and how it can be used. Recent advances in genomics have also made it possible to perform extended genetic testing on DBS cards in the newborn period to diagnose both actionable and non-actionable childhood and adult diseases. Both storage and secondary uses of DBS cards raise many ethical, clinical, and social questions. The openness of the key stakeholders, namely, parents and healthcare providers (HCPs), to store the DBS cards, and for what duration and purposes, and to extended genetic testing is largely dependent on local cultural-social-specific factors. The study objective is to assess the parents' and HCPs' awareness and receptivity toward DBS retention, its secondary usage, and extended genetic testing. A cross-sectional, self-administrated survey was adopted at three hospitals, out of which two were public hospitals with maternity services, between June and December 2022. In total, 452 parents and 107 HCPs completed and returned the survey. Overall, both HCPs and parents were largely knowledgeable about the potential benefits of DBS card storage for a prolonged period and its secondary uses, and they supported extended genetic testing. Knowledge gaps were found in respondents with a lower education level who did not know that a DBS card could be stored for an extended period (p < 0.001), could support scientific research (p = 0.033), and could aid public health research, and future policy implementation (p = 0.030). Main concerns with regard to DBS card storage related to potential privacy breaches and anonymity (Parents 70%, HCPs 60%). More parents, compared to HCPs, believed that storing DBS cards for secondary research does not lead to a reciprocal benefit to the child (p < 0.005). Regarding extended genetic testing, both groups were receptive and wanted to know about actionable childhood- and adult-onset diseases. More parents (four-fifths) rather than HCPs (three-fifths) were interested in learning about a variant with unknown significance (p < 0.001). Our findings report positive support from both parents and HCPs toward the extended retention of DBS cards for secondary usage and for extended genetic testing. However, more efforts to raise awareness need to be undertaken in addition to addressing the ethical concerns of both parents and HCPs to pave the way forward toward policy-making for DBS bio-banking and extended genetic testing in Hong Kong.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kiran Moti Belaramani
- Metabolic Medicine Unit, Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Hong Kong Children’s Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Cheuk Wing Fung
- Metabolic Medicine Unit, Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Hong Kong Children’s Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Anne Mei Kwun Kwok
- Metabolic Medicine Unit, Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Hong Kong Children’s Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shing Yan Robert Lee
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Eric Kin Cheong Yau
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Princess Margaret Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ho Ming Luk
- Clinical Genetics Service Unit, Hong Kong Children’s Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chloe Miu Mak
- Newborn Screening Laboratory, Division of Chemical Pathology, Department of Pathology, Hong Kong Children’s Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Matthew Chun Wing Yeung
- Newborn Screening Laboratory, Division of Chemical Pathology, Department of Pathology, Hong Kong Children’s Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Olivia Miu Yung Ngan
- Medical Ethics and Humanities Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Centre for Medical Ethics and Law, Faculty of Law and LKS Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wilaiwongsathien K, Wattanasirichaigoon D, Rattanasiri S, Aonnuam C, Tangshewinsirikul C, Tim-Aroon T. Parental Awareness, Knowledge, and Attitudes Regarding Current and Future Newborn Bloodspot Screening: The First Report from Thailand. Int J Neonatal Screen 2023; 9:ijns9020025. [PMID: 37218890 DOI: 10.3390/ijns9020025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Newborn screening (NBS) is a public health service that is used to screen for treatable conditions in many countries, including Thailand. Several reports have revealed low levels of parental awareness and knowledge about NBS. Because of limited data on parental perspectives toward NBS in Asia and the differences in socio-cultural and economic contexts between Western and Asian countries, we conducted a study to explore parental perspectives on NBS in Thailand. A Thai questionnaire to assess awareness, knowledge, and attitudes regarding NBS was constructed. The final questionnaire was distributed to pregnant women, with or without their spouses, and to parents of children aged up to one year who visited the study sites in 2022. A total of 717 participants were enrolled. Up to 60% of parents were identified as having good awareness, which was significantly associated with gender, age, and occupation. Only 10% of parents were classified as having good knowledge relative to their education level and occupation. Providing appropriate NBS education should be initiated during antenatal care, focusing on both parents. This study noted a positive attitude toward expanded NBS for treatable inborn metabolic diseases, incurable disorders, and adult-onset diseases. However, modernized NBS should be holistically evaluated by multiple stakeholders in each country because of different socio-cultural and economic contexts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kalyarat Wilaiwongsathien
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Duangrurdee Wattanasirichaigoon
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Sasivimol Rattanasiri
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Chanatpon Aonnuam
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Chayada Tangshewinsirikul
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Thipwimol Tim-Aroon
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gold NB, Adelson SM, Shah N, Williams S, Bick SL, Zoltick ES, Gold JI, Strong A, Ganetzky R, Roberts AE, Walker M, Holtz AM, Sankaran VG, Delmonte O, Tan W, Holm IA, Thiagarajah JR, Kamihara J, Comander J, Place E, Wiggs J, Green RC. Perspectives of Rare Disease Experts on Newborn Genome Sequencing. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2312231. [PMID: 37155167 PMCID: PMC10167563 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.12231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Newborn genome sequencing (NBSeq) can detect infants at risk for treatable disorders currently undetected by conventional newborn screening. Despite broad stakeholder support for NBSeq, the perspectives of rare disease experts regarding which diseases should be screened have not been ascertained. Objective To query rare disease experts about their perspectives on NBSeq and which gene-disease pairs they consider appropriate to evaluate in apparently healthy newborns. Design, Setting, and Participants This survey study, designed between November 2, 2021, and February 11, 2022, assessed experts' perspectives on 6 statements related to NBSeq. Experts were also asked to indicate whether they would recommend including each of 649 gene-disease pairs associated with potentially treatable conditions in NBSeq. The survey was administered between February 11 and September 23, 2022, to 386 experts, including all 144 directors of accredited medical and laboratory genetics training programs in the US. Exposures Expert perspectives on newborn screening using genome sequencing. Main Outcomes and Measures The proportion of experts indicating agreement or disagreement with each survey statement and those who selected inclusion of each gene-disease pair were tabulated. Exploratory analyses of responses by gender and age were conducted using t and χ2 tests. Results Of 386 experts invited, 238 (61.7%) responded (mean [SD] age, 52.6 [12.8] years [range 27-93 years]; 126 [52.9%] women and 112 [47.1%] men). Among the experts who responded, 161 (87.9%) agreed that NBSeq for monogenic treatable disorders should be made available to all newborns; 107 (58.5%) agreed that NBSeq should include genes associated with treatable disorders, even if those conditions were low penetrance; 68 (37.2%) agreed that actionable adult-onset conditions should be sequenced in newborns to facilitate cascade testing in parents, and 51 (27.9%) agreed that NBSeq should include screening for conditions with no established therapies or management guidelines. The following 25 genes were recommended by 85% or more of the experts: OTC, G6PC, SLC37A4, CYP11B1, ARSB, F8, F9, SLC2A1, CYP17A1, RB1, IDS, GUSB, DMD, GLUD1, CYP11A1, GALNS, CPS1, PLPBP, ALDH7A1, SLC26A3, SLC25A15, SMPD1, GATM, SLC7A7, and NAGS. Including these, 42 gene-disease pairs were endorsed by at least 80% of experts, and 432 genes were endorsed by at least 50% of experts. Conclusions and Relevance In this survey study, rare disease experts broadly supported NBSeq for treatable conditions and demonstrated substantial concordance regarding the inclusion of a specific subset of genes in NBSeq.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nina B. Gold
- Division of Medical Genetics and Metabolism, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sophia M. Adelson
- Division of Genetics, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Ariadne Labs, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Nidhi Shah
- Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire
- Geisel School of Medicine, Hanover, New Hampshire
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Shardae Williams
- Division of Genetics, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Ariadne Labs, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sarah L. Bick
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Emilie S. Zoltick
- Division of Genetics, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Center for Healthcare Research in Pediatrics, Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jessica I. Gold
- Division of Human Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Alanna Strong
- Division of Human Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Rebecca Ganetzky
- Division of Human Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Amy E. Roberts
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Cardiology and Division of Genetics and Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Melissa Walker
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Alexander M. Holtz
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Vijay G. Sankaran
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ottavia Delmonte
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Weizhen Tan
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Boston
| | - Ingrid A. Holm
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Manton Center for Orphan Diseases Research, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jay R. Thiagarajah
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Junne Kamihara
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jason Comander
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Emily Place
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Janey Wiggs
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Robert C. Green
- Division of Genetics, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Ariadne Labs, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Broad Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hui LL, Nelson EAS, Deng HB, Leung TY, Ho CH, Chong JSC, Fung GPG, Hui J, Lam HS. The view of Hong Kong parents on secondary use of dried blood spots in newborn screening program. BMC Med Ethics 2022; 23:105. [PMID: 36319979 PMCID: PMC9628108 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-022-00839-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Residual dried blood spots (rDBS) from newborn screening programmes represent a valuable resource for medical research, from basic sciences, through clinical to public health. In Hong Kong, there is no legislation for biobanking. Parents’ view on the retention and use of residual newborn blood samples could be cultural-specific and is important to consider for biobanking of rDBS. Objective To study the views and concerns on long-term storage and secondary use of rDBS from newborn screening programmes among Hong Kong Chinese parents. Methods A mixed-method approach was used to study the views and concerns on long-term storage and secondary use of rDBS from newborn screening programmes among Hong Kong Chinese parents of children 0–3 years or expecting parents through focus groups (8 groups; 33 participants) and a survey (n = 1012, 85% mothers) designed with insights obtained from the focus groups. We used framework analysis to summarise the themes as supportive factors, concerns and critical arguments for retention and secondary use of rDBS from focus group discussion. We used multiple logistic regression to assess factors associated with support for retention and secondary use of rDBS in the survey. Results Both in focus groups and survey, majority of parents were not aware of the potential secondary use of rDBS. Overall secondary use of rDBS in medical research was well accepted by a large proportion of Hong Kong parents, even if all potential future research could not be specified in a broad consent. However parents were concerned about potential risks of biobanking rDBS including leaking of data and mis-use of genetic information. Parents wanted to be asked for permission before rDBS are stored and mainly did not accept an “opt-out” approach. The survey showed that parents born in mainland China, compared to Hong Kong born parents, had lower awareness of newborn screening but higher support in biobanking rDBS. Higher education was associated with support in rDBS biobanking only among fathers. Conclusion Long-term storage and secondary use of rDBS from newborn screening for biomedical research and a broad consent for biobanking of rDBS are generally acceptable to Hong Kong parents given their autonomy is respected and their privacy is protected, highlighting the importance of an accountable governance and a transparent access policy for rDBS biobanks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L L Hui
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - E A S Nelson
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - H B Deng
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - T Y Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - C H Ho
- Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - J S C Chong
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - G P G Fung
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - J Hui
- Private paediatrician, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - H S Lam
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
van der Pal SM, Wins S, Klapwijk JE, van Dijk T, Kater-Kuipers A, van der Ploeg CPB, Jans SMPJ, Kemp S, Verschoof-Puite RK, van den Bosch LJM, Henneman L. Parents’ views on accepting, declining, and expanding newborn bloodspot screening. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0272585. [PMID: 35980961 PMCID: PMC9387838 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0272585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction
The goal of newborn bloodspot screening (NBS) is the early detection of treatable disorders in newborns to offer early intervention. Worldwide, the number of conditions screened for is expanding, which might affect public acceptance. In the Netherlands, participation is high (>99%), but little is known about how parents perceive NBS. This study assessed parents’ views on accepting, declining and expanding NBS.
Methods
A total of 804 of 6051 (13%) invited parents who participated in NBS in the Netherlands during the last two weeks of December 2019, and 48 of 1162 (4%) invited parents who declined participation in NBS in 2019 and 2020, completed a questionnaire.
Results
The most important reason for parents to participate in NBS was to prevent health complaints, whereas the most important reason to decline NBS was parents’ viewpoint on life and the belief that the heel prick would be painful for the child. Compared to NBS participants, respondents who declined NBS were more actively religious, considered alternative medicine or lifestyle more important, were less inclined to vaccinate their child for infectious diseases, and reported more doubt about NBS participation (all differences p < .001). Informed choice was lower among respondents who declined NBS (44%) compared to participants in NBS (83%, p < .001), mostly due to insufficient knowledge. Of the NBS participants, 95% were positive about NBS expansion. Most NBS participants agreed to include conditions that could unintentionally reveal a diagnosis in the mother instead of the child (86%) or a condition that may not cause symptoms until later in the child’s life (84%).
Conclusion
Most participants made an informed decision to participate in NBS and are positive about screening for more conditions. Insights into parents’ views on (non-)participation and expansion of NBS can help to ensure that NBS suits the population needs while safeguarding ethical principles for screening.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jasmijn E. Klapwijk
- Department of Human Genetics and Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tessa van Dijk
- Department of Human Genetics and Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Adriana Kater-Kuipers
- Department of Human Genetics and Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Stephan Kemp
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Laboratory Genetic Metabolic Diseases, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology Metabolism, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rendelien K. Verschoof-Puite
- Department of Vaccine Supply and Prevention Programmes, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Lion J. M. van den Bosch
- Centre for Population Screening, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Lidewij Henneman
- Department of Human Genetics and Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Carlton J, Griffiths HJ, Horwood AM, Mazzone PP, Walker R, Simonsz HJ. Acceptability of childhood screening: a systematic narrative review. Public Health 2021; 193:126-138. [PMID: 33831694 PMCID: PMC8128098 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2021.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Objectives A systematic narrative literature review was undertaken to assess the acceptability of childhood screening interventions to identify factors to consider when planning or modifying childhood screening programs to maximize participation and uptake. Study design This is a systematic narrative literature review. Methods Electronic databases were searched (MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO via Ovid, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library) to identify primary research studies that assessed screening acceptability. Studies were categorized using an existing theoretical framework of acceptability consisting of seven constructs: affective attitude, burden, ethicality, intervention coherence, opportunity costs, perceived effectiveness, and self-efficacy. A protocol was developed and registered with PROSPERO (registration no. CRD42018099763) Results The search identified 4529 studies, and 46 studies met the inclusion criteria. Most studies involved neonatal screening. Programs identified included newborn blood spot screening (n = 22), neonatal hearing screening (n = 13), Duchenne muscular dystrophy screening (n = 4), cystic fibrosis screening (n = 3), screening for congenital heart defects (n = 2), and others (n = 2). Most studies assessed more than one construct of acceptability. The most common constructs identified were affective attitude (how a parent feels about the program) and intervention coherence (parental understanding of the program, and/or the potential consequences of a confirmed diagnosis). Conclusions The main acceptability component identified related to parental knowledge and understanding of the screening process, the testing procedure(s), and consent. The emotional impact of childhood screening mostly explored maternal anxiety. Further studies are needed to examine the acceptability of childhood screening across the wider family unit. When planning new (or refining existing) childhood screening programs, it is important to assess acceptability before implementation. This should include assessment of important issues such as information needs, timing of information, and when and where the screening should occur.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Carlton
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), Regent Court, 30 Regent Street, Sheffield, S1 4DA, UK.
| | - H J Griffiths
- Academic Unit of Ophthalmology and Orthoptics, The Medical School, University of Sheffield, Health Sciences School, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield, S10 2RX, UK.
| | - A M Horwood
- Infant Vision Laboratory, School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Infant Vision Laboratory, Earley Gate, Reading, RG6 6AL, UK.
| | - P P Mazzone
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), Regent Court, 30 Regent Street, Sheffield, S1 4DA, UK.
| | - R Walker
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), Regent Court, 30 Regent Street, Sheffield, S1 4DA, UK.
| | - H J Simonsz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus Medical Center, P.O. Box 2040, NL-3000CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ross LF, Paquette ET. The Complexities of Ascertaining Public Preferences for Newborn Screening Policies. J Pediatr 2018; 201:8-9. [PMID: 30025673 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2018.06.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
8
|
Ulph F, Wright S, Dharni N, Payne K, Bennett R, Roberts S, Walshe K, Lavender T. Provision of information about newborn screening antenatally: a sequential exploratory mixed-methods project. Health Technol Assess 2018; 21:1-240. [PMID: 28967862 DOI: 10.3310/hta21550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Participation in the UK Newborn Bloodspot Screening Programme (NBSP) requires parental consent but concerns exist about whether or not this happens in practice and the best methods and timing to obtain consent at reasonable cost. OBJECTIVES To collate all possible modes of prescreening communication and consent for newborn (neonatal) screening (NBS); examine midwives', screening professionals' and users' views about the feasibility, efficiency and impact on understanding of each; measure midwives' and parents' preferences for information provision; and identify key drivers of cost-effectiveness for alternative modes of information provision. DESIGN Six study designs were used: (1) realist review - to generate alternative communication and consent models; (2) qualitative interviews with parents and health professionals - to examine the implications of current practice for understanding and views on alternative models; (3) survey and observation of midwives - to establish current costs; (4) stated preference surveys with midwives, parents and potential future parents - to establish preferences for information provision; (5) economic analysis - to identify cost-effectiveness drivers of alternative models; and (6) stakeholder validation focus groups and interviews - to examine the acceptability, views and broader impact of alternative communication and consent models. SETTING Providers and users of NBS in England. PARTICIPANTS Study 2: 45 parents and 37 health professionals; study 3: 22 midwives and eight observations; study 4: 705 adults aged 18-45 years and 134 midwives; and study 6: 12 health-care professionals and five parents. RESULTS The realist review identified low parental knowledge and evidence of coercive consent practices. Interview, focus group and stated preference data suggested a preference for full information, with some valuing this more than choice. Health professionals preferred informed choice models but parents and health professionals queried whether or not current consent was fully informed. Barriers to using leaflets effectively were highlighted. All studies indicated that a 'personalised' approach to NBS communication, allowing parents to select the mode and level of information suited to their learning needs, could have added value. A personalised approach should rely on midwife communication and should occur in the third trimester. Overall awareness was identified as requiring improvement. Starting NBS communication by alerting parents that they have a choice to make and telling them that samples could be stored are both likely to enhance engagement. The methods of information provision and maternal anxiety causing additional visits to health-care professionals were the drivers of relative cost-effectiveness. Lack of data to populate an economic analysis, confirmed by value of information analysis, indicated a need for further research. LIMITATIONS There are some limitations with regard to the range of participants used in studies 2 and 3 and so caution should be exercised when interpreting some of the results. CONCLUSIONS This project highlighted the importance of focusing on information receipt and identified key communication barriers. Health professionals strongly preferred informed consent, which parents endorsed if they were made aware of sample storage. Uniform models of information provision were perceived as ineffective. A choice of information provision was supported by health professionals and parents, which both enhances cost-effectiveness and improves engagement, understanding and the validity of consent. Remaining uncertainties suggest that more research is needed before new communication modes are introduced into practice. Future research should measure the impact of the suggested practice changes (informing in third trimester, information toolkits, changed role of midwife). TRIAL REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN70227207. FUNDING This project was funded by the NIHR Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 21, No. 55. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Ulph
- Division of Mental Health and Psychology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Stuart Wright
- Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Nimarta Dharni
- Division of Mental Health and Psychology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Katherine Payne
- Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Stephen Roberts
- Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Kieran Walshe
- Alliance Manchester Business School, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Tina Lavender
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Lam MYY, Wong ECM, Law CW, Lee HHL, McPherson B. Maternal knowledge and attitudes to universal newborn hearing screening: Reviewing an established program. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 2018; 105:146-153. [PMID: 29447803 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2017.12.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2017] [Revised: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To facilitate early diagnosis of infants with hearing loss, a universal newborn hearing screening program (UNHS) has been implemented in Hong Kong's public hospitals for over a decade. However, there have been no known studies investigating parent attitudes to, and satisfaction with, UNHS since its launch in Hong Kong. The present study aimed to investigate knowledge of UNHS as well as infant hearing development, and attitudes and satisfaction with UNHS, in Hong Kong mothers with newborns. The study was designed to help evaluate and improve an established UNHS public hospital program, based on the perspectives of service users. METHODS A researcher-developed questionnaire was administered to 102 mothers whose newborn had received UNHS in the postnatal wards of a large public hospital in Hong Kong. The questionnaire considered parental knowledge of UNHS and infant hearing development, attitudes and satisfaction toward public hospital UNHS. In the knowledge dimension, parents' preferred time and location for pre-test information delivery, interpretation of screening results, and knowledge of hearing developmental milestones were surveyed. In addition, maternal attitudes to and satisfaction with UNHS screening services, the potential impact of UNHS on parent emotions and parent-baby bonding, attitudes toward informed consent, and willingness to comply with diagnostic assessment referral were also be surveyed. RESULTS Mean participant scores on knowledge of infant hearing development were relatively low (M = 2.59/6.0, SD = 0.90). Many mothers also underestimated the potential ongoing risks of hearing impairment in babies. Around 80% of mothers thought an infant could not have hearing impairment after passing the screening. In addition, one-third of mothers thought a baby could not later develop hearing impairment in infancy or childhood. In terms of attitudes and satisfaction, participants gave somewhat negative ratings for questions regarding receiving sufficient information about the screening (M = 2.90/5.0, SD = 1.27), screening procedure (M = 2.20/5.0, SD = 1.08), and sufficiency of information about results (M = 2.87/5.0, SD = 1.14). Nonetheless, participants gave positive ratings concerning whether screening could lead to early diagnosis (M = 4.61/5.0, SD = 0.57) and over 95% of mothers supported UNHS despite potential for false positive results. Mothers reported a high willingness to bring their baby to follow-up assessments if required (M = 4.53/5.0, SD = 0.56). Participants gave positive ratings for their level of satisfaction with the time and location of first UNHS information provision (M = 4.34/5.0, SD = 0.80) and the way permission was asked for screening the baby (M = 4.04/5.0, SD = 0.97) but alternative procedures were also recommended. Most recommendations focused on providing more information about the test and a more detailed explanation of screening results. CONCLUSIONS The survey results highlighted the need to provide more information to parents about infant hearing development to support home monitoring for signs of hearing loss after UNHS, as well as more detailed explanation and information regarding hearing screening and the implications of results to parents. Regardless of location, surveys of this type may provide valuable support for UNHS program quality assurance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maggie Yee Yan Lam
- Division of Speech and Hearing Sciences, Faculty of Education, University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Eddie Chi Ming Wong
- Department of Ear, Nose and Throat, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 30 Gascoigne Road, Yau Ma Tei, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Chi Wai Law
- Department of Paediatrics, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 30 Gascoigne Road, Yau Ma Tei, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Helena Hui Ling Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 30 Gascoigne Road, Yau Ma Tei, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Bradley McPherson
- Division of Speech and Hearing Sciences, Faculty of Education, University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Paquin RS, Peay HL, Gehtland LM, Lewis MA, Bailey DB. Parental intentions to enroll children in a voluntary expanded newborn screening program. Soc Sci Med 2016; 166:17-24. [PMID: 27526258 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2016.07.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2016] [Revised: 07/16/2016] [Accepted: 07/26/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Nearly all babies in the United States are tested at birth for rare, serious, and treatable disorders through mandatory state newborn screening (NBS). Recently, there have been calls for an expanded, voluntary model to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment of a wider range of disorders. We applied the reasoned action framework to examine parental intentions to participate in voluntary expanded screening. METHODS We recruited a national cohort of recent and expectant parents living in the U.S. who completed a self-administered online survey (N = 1001). Using a mixed-level fractional factorial experiment, we studied parental participation intentions and preferences for timing of consent, cost, consent format, and testing options. RESULTS We conducted a hierarchical regression analysis assessing parental intentions to participate in voluntary expanded NBS. Attitudes, perceived normative influence, and perceived behavioral control explained substantial variance in intention, with perceived normative influence emerging as the strongest predictor. We found no evidence that the manipulated program features altered mean levels of intention, but timing of parental permission, cost, and permission format moderated the relative importance of reasoned action constructs on intention. CONCLUSION Program design features may impact the psychological mechanisms underlying parental decision making for voluntary expanded screening. These results have important implications for parent education, outreach, and informed parental permission procedures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan S Paquin
- Center for Communication Science, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States.
| | - Holly L Peay
- Center for P-12 Education, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Lisa M Gehtland
- Center for P-12 Education, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Megan A Lewis
- Center for Communication Science, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Donald B Bailey
- Education and Workforce Development, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Lillie SE, Tarini BA, Janz NK, Zikmund-Fisher BJ. Framing optional genetic testing in the context of mandatory newborn screening tests. BMC Med Inform Decis Mak 2015; 15:50. [PMID: 26123051 PMCID: PMC4485334 DOI: 10.1186/s12911-015-0173-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2015] [Accepted: 06/12/2015] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Parents are increasingly faced with decisions about optional newborn bloodspot screening (NBS) despite no consistent policy for communicating information about such testing. We examined whether framing optional NBS alongside mandatory NBS influenced intention to participate in optional NBS. Methods For this Internet-administered study, 2,991 adults read a hypothetical vignette in which optional NBS for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) was either presented by itself (in isolation), alongside a description including the total number of mandatory NBS tests (“bundled” mandatory context), or alongside a listing of each mandatory NBS test (“unbundled” mandatory context). We assessed associations with participants’ intended participation using ordered logistic regression models, and associations with attitudes towards optional DMD NBS and subjective norms using Analysis of Variance. Results Participants were more likely to choose optional DMD NBS if they also read information about mandatory NBS (either bundled or unbundled) versus when DMD NBS was presented in isolation. Participants who read about optional DMD NBS in isolation also reported such testing to be less important and that they would worry more about the results than those who also saw mandatory NBS information. Conclusions Future NBS programs should pay attention to the framing of optional testing communication, as it influences parental behavior. Predictors of NBS uptake will become increasingly important as NBS programs continue expanding. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12911-015-0173-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Lillie
- Center for Chronic Disease Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, USA.
| | - Beth A Tarini
- Child Health Evaluation and Research (CHEAR) Unit, Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA.,Division of General Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Nancy K Janz
- Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Brian J Zikmund-Fisher
- Division of General Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA.,Department of Health Behavior & Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA.,Center for Bioethics and Social Sciences in Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA.,Risk Science Center, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Bombard Y, Miller FA, Hayeems RZ, Barg C, Cressman C, Carroll JC, Wilson BJ, Little J, Avard D, Painter-Main M, Allanson J, Giguere Y, Chakraborty P. Public views on participating in newborn screening using genome sequencing. Eur J Hum Genet 2014; 22:1248-54. [PMID: 24549052 PMCID: PMC4200434 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2014.22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2013] [Revised: 01/17/2014] [Accepted: 01/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Growing discussion on the use of whole-genome or exome sequencing (WG/ES) in newborn screening (NBS) has raised concerns regarding the generation of incidental information on millions of infants annually. It is unknown whether integrating WG/ES would alter public expectations regarding participation in universal NBS. We assessed public willingness to participate in NBS using WG/ES compared with current NBS. Our secondary objective was to assess the public's beliefs regarding a parental responsibility to participate in WG/ES-based NBS compared with current NBS. We examined self-reported attitudes regarding willingness to participate in NBS using a cross-sectional national survey of Canadian residents recruited through an internet panel, reflective of the Canadian population by age, gender and region. Our results showed that fewer respondents would be willing to participate in NBS using WG/ES compared with NBS using current technologies (80 vs 94%, P<0.001), or perceived a parental responsibility to participate in WG/ES-based NBS vs current NBS (30 vs 48%, P<0.001). Our findings suggest that integrating WG/ES into NBS might reduce participation, and challenge the moral authority that NBS programmes rely upon to ensure population benefits. These findings point to the need for caution in the untargeted use of WG/ES in public health contexts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne Bombard
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Fiona A Miller
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Robin Z Hayeems
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Carolyn Barg
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Celine Cressman
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - June C Carroll
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brenda J Wilson
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Julian Little
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Medicine, University of Ottawa, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Denise Avard
- Centre for Genomics and Policy, Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Michael Painter-Main
- Department of Political Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Judith Allanson
- Department of Genetics, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yves Giguere
- Quebec Blood Newborn Screening Program, Department of Medical Biology, CHU de Quebec, Charlesbourg, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Molecular Biology, Medical Biochemistry and Pathology, University of Laval, Quebec, Quebec, Canada
| | - Pranesh Chakraborty
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Newborn Screening Ontario, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Mak CM, Lee HCH, Chan AYW, Lam CW. Inborn errors of metabolism and expanded newborn screening: review and update. Crit Rev Clin Lab Sci 2014; 50:142-62. [PMID: 24295058 DOI: 10.3109/10408363.2013.847896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) are a phenotypically and genetically heterogeneous group of disorders caused by a defect in a metabolic pathway, leading to malfunctioning metabolism and/or the accumulation of toxic intermediate metabolites. To date, more than 1000 different IEM have been identified. While individually rare, the cumulative incidence has been shown to be upwards of 1 in 800. Clinical presentations are protean, complicating diagnostic pathways. IEM are present in all ethnic groups and across every age. Some IEM are amenable to treatment, with promising outcomes. However, high clinical suspicion alone is not sufficient to reduce morbidities and mortalities. In the last decade, due to the advent of tandem mass spectrometry, expanded newborn screening (NBS) has become a mandatory public health strategy in most developed and developing countries. The technology allows inexpensive simultaneous detection of more than 30 different metabolic disorders in one single blood spot specimen at a cost of about USD 10 per baby, with commendable analytical accuracy and precision. The sensitivity and specificity of this method can be up to 99% and 99.995%, respectively, for most amino acid disorders, organic acidemias, and fatty acid oxidation defects. Cost-effectiveness studies have confirmed that the savings achieved through the use of expanded NBS programs are significantly greater than the costs of implementation. The adverse effects of false positive results are negligible in view of the economic health benefits generated by expanded NBS and these could be minimized through increased education, better communication, and improved technologies. Local screening agencies should be given the autonomy to develop their screening programs in order to keep pace with international advancements. The development of biochemical genetics is closely linked with expanded NBS. With ongoing advancements in nanotechnology and molecular genomics, the field of biochemical genetics is still expanding rapidly. The potential of tandem mass spectrometry is extending to cover more disorders. Indeed, the use of genetic markers in T-cell receptor excision circles for severe combined immunodeficiency is one promising example. NBS represents the highest volume of genetic testing. It is more than a test and it warrants systematic healthcare service delivery across the pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical phases. There should be a comprehensive reporting system entailing genetic counselling as well as short-term and long-term follow-up. It is essential to integrate existing clinical IEM services with the expanded NBS program to enable close communication between the laboratory, clinicians, and allied health parties. In this review, we will discuss the history of IEM, its clinical presentations in children and adult patients, and its incidence among different ethnicities; the history and recent expansion of NBS, its cost-effectiveness, associated pros and cons, and the ethical issues that can arise; the analytical aspects of tandem mass spectrometry and post-analytical perspectives regarding result interpretation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chloe Miu Mak
- Chemical Pathology Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Princess Margaret Hospital , Hong Kong, SAR , China and
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
|
15
|
Mei L, Song P, Kokudo N, Xu L, Tang W. Current situation and prospects of newborn screening and treatment for Phenylketonuria in China - compared with the current situation in the United States, UK and Japan. Intractable Rare Dis Res 2013; 2:106-14. [PMID: 25343113 PMCID: PMC4204557 DOI: 10.5582/irdr.2013.v2.4.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2013] [Accepted: 11/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a treat-able and prevent-able inborn error of metabolism which leads to severe mental retardation and neurobehavioral abnormalities. A screening program, especially for early detection, combined with a Phe-restricted therapeutic diet can help to control the process of PKU of most patients. The China government has put more emphasis on newborn screening and treatment against PKU, yet by comparing the situation of newborn screening and treatment against PKU in China and the relatively developed countries - United States, United Kingdom and Japan, the newborn screening and treatment against PKU in China is relatively weak and many deficiencies are found. More studies concerning multi-stage target blood Phe concentration criteria, a policy that requires newborn screening has to be taken, better financial support for newborn screening, publicity for newborn screening, and national guidelines for treatment of PKU may be prospects in China and may provide some support for better development of newborn screening and treatment against PKU in China.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lin Mei
- Department of Health Care Management and Maternal and Child Health, Shandong University, Ji'nan, Shandong, China
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Peipei Song
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Norihiro Kokudo
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Lingzhong Xu
- Department of Health Care Management and Maternal and Child Health, Shandong University, Ji'nan, Shandong, China
- Address correspondence to: Dr. Lingzhong Xu, Department of Health Care Management and Maternal and Child Health, NO.110 mailbox, Shandong University, 44 Wenhuaxi Road, Ji'nan 250012, China. E-mail:
| | - Wei Tang
- Department of Health Care Management and Maternal and Child Health, Shandong University, Ji'nan, Shandong, China
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Dr. Wei Tang, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan. E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|