January is National Birth Defects Prevention Month

January is National Birth Defects Prevention Month. The theme for 2019 is “Best for You. Best for Baby.” The National Birth Defects Prevention Network Education and Outreach Committee has developed materials and resources to assist organizations interested in raising awareness during National Birth Defects Prevention Month. The CDC’s five tips for preventing birth defects are:

1. Be sure to take 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid every day.
2. Book a visit with your healthcare provider before stopping or starting any medicine.
3. Become up-to-date with all vaccines, including the flu shot.
4. Before you get pregnant, try to reach a healthy weight.
5. Boost your health by avoiding harmful substances during pregnancy, such as alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.

Early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of newborn diseases are critically important. Timely newborn screening can prevent death and improve patient care outcomes. CLSI newborn screening laboratory standards provide test collection instructions, as well as information on methods for the detection of metabolic and hereditary disorders. Learn more at https://clsi.org/standards/products/newborn-screening/.