Genetic Diseases and Lead Poisoning Prevention
The Louisiana Genetic Diseases Program was established in 1981 through a federal grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). The purpose of the program continues to be the operation of a comprehensive newborn heel stick screening program meeting national standards as well as to ensure access to genetic evaluation and counseling to residents in all areas of Louisiana.
Also known as Globoid Cell Leukodystrohpy, Krabbe Disease is an inherited disorder that destroys the protective coating of nerve cells in the brain and throughout the nervous system. Click here to download more information about Krabbe disease, including information on screening.
New Cutoff Values for Newborn Screening
The Office of Public Health Laboratory had completed a review for all of the cut-off values used for newborn screening testing based on 2015 data. The evaluation was done first by comparing the mean values observed (measured) values for each analyte (compound detected) during 2015 to the 2014 mean values for the same analyte. This is a way to look for shifts in the average reference values for the Louisiana newborn population as a whole. Please click here for evaluation method and detail updates.
NEW links to videos regarding Newborn Screening specimen collection for staff training:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pPnLmYUVtvM&feature=youtu.be
- Standards for Care of Patients with Sickle Cell Disease
- Newborn Screening Frequently Asked Questions
- "Louisiana Newborn Heel Stick Screening: Make sure your baby is tested"
- List of Disorders
- Lead Prevention Plans
- Screening, Technology And Research in Genetics (STAR-G) Disorder Factsheets for Parents