Most developed countries already screen every newborn for haemoglobinopathies. New Zealand doesn't. We think that should change.
When a baby is born with thalassaemia major or sickle cell disease, early diagnosis is the difference between thriving and crisis. Caught at birth, families can start transfusion or hydroxyurea before symptoms appear. Missed at birth, the diagnosis often comes after a painful crisis, sepsis, or developmental delay.
Every developed health system has made this call: universal newborn screening saves lives, reduces NICU admissions, and is one of the most cost-effective interventions in public health.
Countries with universal screening
Hasn't added it. Yet.
NZers affected by these conditions
Signatures gathered so far
Universal newborn screening for sickle cell since 2006. Outcomes transformed.
All 50 states screen for haemoglobinopathies at birth. Has been routine for decades.
Most states add HbS detection to standard newborn screening.
No universal screening. Diagnosis often comes after crisis or developmental delay.
To the existing newborn screening (heel-prick) programme. The infrastructure already exists.
Funding the test alone isn't enough, we need confirmed-positive babies to be referred and supported from day one.
Provide culturally-safe family counselling and follow-up for all positive results.
We're gathering signatures for a petition to the Minister of Health. Every name strengthens the case.
Share the campaign. Write to your MP. Tell your community.
