North Carolina and Nevada Step up Efforts to Screen Newborns for Cystic Fibrosis

August 26, 2008

North Carolina approved legislation this July to require mandatory screening of all newborns for cystic fibrosis, effective January 2009.  Additionally, Nevada began conducting screening after approving the process earlier this year.

The two states join 43 others and the District of Columbia in requiring that all newborns be screened for cystic fibrosis at birth. In addition, Utah will also begin screening in January.

Research studies show that newborn screening for CF will likely improve and extend the lives of those born with the disease. Early intervention has been shown to improve height, weight, nutrition, cognitive and lung functioning, and to reduce hospitalizations. The Foundation strongly urges all states to routinely screen newborns for the disease.

Read the full release.