In a significant stride towards newborn health, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has included Krabbe disease in its Newborn Screening Program, announced on Monday. Krabbe disease, a rare neurological condition with no known cure, will now be a part of the comprehensive screening process for Minnesota newborns.
Krabbe disease is an inherited disorder hindering newborns from fully breaking down specific fats, leading to a dangerous buildup that can result in severe neurological issues and potential fatality within the child’s first two years of life. Currently, stem cell transplants represent the sole treatment for Krabbe disease, with optimal effectiveness within the baby’s initial 30 days. M Health Fairview Masonic Children’s Hospital in Minneapolis stands as the region’s exclusive facility performing newborn stem cell transplants.
MDH Commissioner Dr. Brooke Cunningham emphasized the importance of this addition, stating, “Adding Krabbe disease to the long list of conditions the lab already screens for will help identify more children earlier, slow the progression of their symptoms, and even increase their lifespan.”
MDH, conducting newborn screenings in Minnesota since 1964, screened over 60,400 newborns for over 60 medical conditions last year. This initiative resulted in early intervention and treatment recommendations for around 400 babies, showcasing the program’s impact on newborn health.
Parents have the option to opt-out of these screenings, providing flexibility while ensuring comprehensive health assessments for newborns across the state. This proactive approach aims to detect potential health challenges early on, offering timely interventions and improving the overall well-being of Minnesota’s newborns.
