Newborn Screening (NBS) 50th Anniversary Celebrations and the Campaign to Save Lives

September 18, 2013 marked a high point in the 50th Anniversary Newborn Screening Campaign with a high-level policy event hosted by APHL—the Association of Public Health Laboratories. The country’s public health labs analyze 97% of the newborn screening tests from some 4 million babies born annually in the United States.

The September event was held on Capitol Hill and recognized 50 years of achievements by one of the most successful public health programs in this country. It celebrated newborn screening champions from across the community -- scientists, state and federal government officials, public health specialists, family advocates, and congressional supporters -- who shared compelling family stories, recounted innovations and milestones in the field and presented and accepted awards to leading newborn screening advocates.

Public health and science experts’ presentations on the past and future of newborn screening were recorded by a graphic artist in real time on huge paper panels. The real-time illustration of these panels and the presentations that inspire them are scheduled to be streamed live and viewable on the APHL’s website. ABC News Medical Editor Dr. Richard Besser emceed this high-level policy event. A reception, hosted by APHL, follow the ceremonies.