Inclusion of simple tests with non-invasive tools that can be integrated within the existing health systems is part of the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines calling for universal screening of newborns for hearing impairment, eye abnormalities, and neonatal jaundice.
Highlighting the importance of this regional implementation guidance, Saima Wazed, the South-East Asia regional director of WHO said the move aimed to facilitate capacity-building for newborn or neonatal screening, focusing on pre-symptomatic detection shortly after birth.
The guidelines follow concerns that the contribution of birth defects to under-five mortality in the region has increased from 4 per cent to 11 per cent during the past two decades (2000 to 2021) as countries successfully addressed other major causes of death.
“By identifying serious treatable conditions early on, such as hearing impairment, eye abnormalities, and neonatal jaundice, healthcare professionals can intervene promptly, potentially preventing long-term disabilities and improving the quality of life for affected infants,” she said.
“Backed by referral, diagnosis, management and follow-up for appropriate treatment, these screenings will enable prevention of long-term disability or premature death,” she said during the release of the guidance at a regional webinar on birth defects.
The guidance incorporates simple tests with non-invasive tools that can be integrated within the existing health systems.
These screenings should be done prior to discharge after a health-facility birth or at the first postnatal care contact in an outpatient setting after a home birth, according to the guidance prepared after the exhaustive consultative process with technical experts from member countries of the region.
“Focusing on improving care around the time of birth and the first week of life is important to ensure every child survives and thrives to reach their full potential,” Wazed said. She added, persistent collaborative efforts over the years has led to the South-East Asia region witnessing a 45 per cent decline in under-five mortality between 2010 and 2021 -- the steepest among all WHO regions and against the global reduction of 26 per cent.
“Our region is committed to achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal targets for maternal, newborn and child mortality,” Wazed said.