Carrier Screening Lowers Incidence of Cystic Fibrosis

A larger number of CF carrier tests correlated with fewer CF births.

Several reports suggest that the incidence of cystic fibrosis (CF) is declining in some populations. To examine the effect of CF carrier screening on CF incidence, investigators compared CF birth incidence in two regions in Italy: One region offered selective CF carrier screening to relatives of CF patients and to couples before in vitro fertilization; the other region offered broader CF carrier screening to CF relatives, all couples of reproductive age, and infertile couples. CF neonatal screening was performed in both regions.

Between 1993 and 2007, 779,631 newborns were screened in the two regions, and CF was detected in 195. Overall, CF incidence declined annually at a rate of 0.16 per 10,000 neonates. The rate of decline was greater in …

Reviewing Author

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)