The test from the company Sema4 allows you to check the newborn for 193 genetic diseases. This will cope with many congenital diseases in the early stages, writes New Atlas. Currently, newborns in the US are scanned for 34 genetic diseases. The new test Sema4 Natalis will identify 193 diseases and take precautionary measures in time. For this, it is necessary to take a DNA sample from the baby with a smear from the inner surface of the cheek and send it by mail to Sema4. "Usually families are caught unawares by congenital diseases, and it is too late to treat them when the first symptoms appear," says Sema4 head Erik Schadt. "Thanks to advances in medicine and science, we can now test children for a wider range of genetic diseases. Sometimes the course of the disease can be changed by simple vitamins, if this is done at a very early stage ". The test also allows you to scan 10 genes for side effects when taking the 38 most popular drugs prescribed by doctors. Critics, however, say that tests only reveal a predisposition to a disease that may not develop. As a result, this leads to unnecessary tests, buying medicines and increased nervousness of parents, which can negatively affect the child's psyche.

Meanwhile, Sema4 offers a free genetic counseling, which is included in the test, worth $ 650. According to the company, this will allow parents to be sent in the right direction. Despite the fact that the market for DNA testing of newborns is booming, it still must officially go through doctors so that parents do not stand alone with the results. Each order placed in Sema4 undergoes an audit by a physician to comply with US law.

Original article: A new DNA test tests a newborn for 193 diseases.