Is Screening for 48 Types of Inherited Metabolic Disorders in Newborns Necessary?

Screening for 48 types of inherited metabolic diseases in newborns is necessary, as it can generally detect and treat diseases early, thereby avoiding adverse impacts on the growth and development of newborns. There are numerous types of inherited metabolic diseases in newborns, such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hypothyroidism, pediatric hepatolenticular degeneration, alkaptonuria, albinism, phenylketonuria, methioninemia, and disorders of carbohydrate metabolism. Many of these inherited metabolic diseases can be treated early, and some can even be cured, without affecting subsequent growth and development. Therefore, it is essential to screen newborns for 48 types of inherited metabolic diseases after birth to facilitate targeted treatment. For example, in cases of hypothyroidism, levothyroxine sodium tablets can be prescribed for early treatment according to medical advice. For pediatric hepatolenticular degeneration, zinc gluconate oral solution, zinc sulfate granules, and vitamin B6 tablets can be prescribed for treatment. After birth, parents should follow the doctor's guidance to conduct corresponding examination items for their newborns.