UT San Antonio
Long School of Medicine

Newborn Screening Explained: How a Few Drops Save Lives

Host Holly Wayment interviews Dr. Alice Gong where she explains explains newborn screening: a few drops of blood (done at 24–48 hours and again at 7–14 days in Texas) detect dozens of conditions early so babies who look well can get life-saving treatment.

The episode covers blood screening, hearing and critical congenital heart disease checks, common conditions like PKU, new treatments such as gene therapy for spinal muscular atrophy, and the importance of timely follow-up with your pediatrician.

Meet your host:

Holly Wayment
Holly Wayment,
Host and Executive Producer, Pediatrics NOW