Medical Experts Advocate Newborn Screening for Inborn Errors of Metabolism

Medical experts emphasized the importance of screening newborns for inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) and training doctors for the same. The conference highlighted treatments, awareness, and drug repurposing efforts to manage rare diseases. Experts shared updates on recognizing, diagnosing, and treating these conditions.

Medical experts have emphasized the importance of screening newborns for inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) and training doctors to recognize and diagnose these diseases. Speaking on Sunday, the Indian Society for Inborn Errors of Metabolism (ISIEM) Secretary Dr. Sunita Bijarnia stressed the availability of treatments and the need for public awareness.

Experts gathered for an in-depth discussion on genetic metabolic disorders, newborn screening, and the basics of IEM at a three-day conference aimed at creating awareness among the medical community. Dr. Bijarnia highlighted the pressing need to promote newborn screening as a significant public health measure.

Lt. Col. Dr. Aradhana Dwivedi, Medical Geneticist with Army Hospital, noted that India's high population and birth rate contribute to a higher prevalence of genetic/rare diseases. Experts also discussed the viability of drug repurposing to find new therapeutic uses for existing medications. Conference organizing secretary Dr. Priyanshu Mathur pointed out the potential of affordable treatments to enhance the quality of life for affected children.

(With inputs from agencies.)