Three New States Join Efforts to Screen Newborns for Cystic Fibrosis

April 10, 2008

Illinois and Vermont have joined 37 other states and the District of Columbia in requiring that all newborns be screened for cystic fibrosis at birth. 

In addition, the Nevada Department of Health has decided to begin regular CF screening as well. Routine screening will be implemented when state lawmakers set an implementation date. 

“Early diagnosis for cystic fibrosis is critically important because it gives every newborn a better chance for better health and a longer life,” said Robert J. Beall, Ph.D., president and CEO of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. “We congratulate the 40 states in the country who are now screening for the disease, and look forward to every state in the union joining this important effort.”