Cyprus neonatal screening program limited to two diseases

A recent briefing by the European Parliamentary Research Service (EPRS) indicates that Cyprus maintains one of the most limited neonatal screening programs in the European Union. The national program currently covers only congenital hypothyroidism and phenylketonuria (PKU). This diagnostic process typically involves analyzing blood samples from a newborn's heel to detect metabolic or hormonal markers before symptoms manifest. In contrast, other EU member states have expanded their screening panels significantly, with Italy screening for 43 conditions, Slovakia for 36, and Poland for 30. Cyprus and Malta are currently listed at the lowest level of coverage in the EU. The data aligns with findings from the European Screen4Care project, which highlights the discrepancy between Cyprus and other member states. Experts note that early detection is crucial for initiating timely medical interventions and managing chronic conditions. The issue has resurfaced as a public health concern regarding the standardization of newborn screening guidelines across the union.