Medway Maritime Hospital joins world-leading study to screen babies for 200 genetic conditions

Newborn babies will be screened for more than 200 genetic conditions as Medway Maritime Hospital becomes the first hospital in Kent and Medway to participate in the Generation Study.

The study wants to learn if looking at the DNA of newborns can help us find and treat genetic conditions earlier. It will test for 200+ rare genetic conditions including sickle cell, cystic fibrosis and hypothyroidism that can be treated in the NHS in early childhood.

Led by Genomics England in partnership with NHS England, the Generation Study sees newborn babies offered whole genome sequencing using blood samples which are usually taken from their umbilical cord shortly after birth.

By taking part, parents could find out early about a possible genetic condition in their baby. Joining the study could also help future generations of children with genetic conditions get a healthier start to life.

Jess is a midwife working in the delivery suite at the hospital and one of the first people to be signed up for the study at Medway.

Jess said: “I wanted to sign up to the study to give me peace of mind about my baby’s health and to help future generations too.

“Working as a midwife, we see the benefits of research every day and how it helps provide the best of care to our patients.”

Expectant parents are informed about the study during pregnancy, and if interested a research midwife will have a detailed conversation with them to decide if they want to take part.

After the birth, a doctor or midwife will confirm with the parents they are happy for their baby to be tested. A blood sample from the umbilical cord or a heel prick will be taken and sent off. Parents will be contacted once the results have been reviewed.

Alison Herron, Director of Midwifery and Deputy Chief Nurse at Medway NHS Foundation Trust said: “We know many parents worry about their baby’s health and that new parenthood is a worrying time.

“We are excited to be able to offer the Generation Study to our patients at Medway Maritime Hospital. By taking part in this study you can help babies and new parents like you in the future to help us unlock early treatment and offer vital research in the hope of improving outcomes and healthier lives for children.”

Find out more about the Generation Study or speak to your midwife about participating in the study.

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