Ethical aspects of the expansion of neonatal screening programme due to technological advances.

Source

UK Newborn Screening Programme Centre, Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK.

Abstract

Abstract Many countries are considering the expansion of their newborn bloodspot screening programmes. Whereas some countries screen for very few conditions, others are planning to screen for dozens. While advances in technology may facilitate this expansion, they must not lead it at the expense of considerations of the possible harms of this expansion. This article reviews some of the potential disbenefits of this expansion and outlines the ethical issues that should be considered.