Newborn DNA Testing

Every baby in the UK will have its DNA tested for the NHS as part of a new 10-year plan. The sequencing of the entire genome will examine hundreds of diseases and enable people to "skip" killer diseases.

Purpose of DNA Testing

The main goal of this plan is to move the NHS towards a model of disease prevention rather than treatment. Personalized medicine, made possible by DNA tests, will play a large part in this plan, with genomic research being promised £650 million in funding.

Benefits of Genomic Research

Genomics offers the opportunity to prevent diseases. The revolution in medical science means that in the coming decade, the NHS can be transformed from a service that diagnoses and treats sick health to one that predicts and prevents it.

Current Testing Methods

Newborns are currently offered a blood test when they are about five days old to check for nine rare but serious conditions. With these bloodspot tests, the baby’s heel is pricked to collect a few drops of blood on a card. In contrast, entire genome sequencing involves removing blood samples from the umbilical cord shortly after birth.

Future Plans

The upcoming plan for the life sciences will be published in early July. The government’s 10-year plan is expected to include a stronger focus on prevention, as well as two other "layers": hospital care in communities and a shift from analog to digital services.

Investment in the NHS

This plan follows the announcement that the government would increase NHS funding by £29 billion a year over the next three years. The goal is to shorten waiting lists and provide better care for patients. With the power of new technology, patients can receive personalized healthcare to prevent diseases before symptoms begin, reducing pressure on NHS services and helping people live longer, healthier lives.