A recent report from the Assembly Estimates Committee in Kerala has revealed a disturbing trend: an alarming rise in genetic defects among newborns, with Thiruvananthapuram at the epicenter of this crisis.
The report, compiled from the Newborn Screening Program data between 2021 and 2023, paints a concerning picture. Thiruvananthapuram leads the state in the number of newborn children with genetic defects, followed by Kollam and Malappuram. The figures speak for themselves: a 226% increase in cases in Thiruvananthapuram from 2021 to 2023, with the number of reported genetic defects rising from 2,635 in 2021 to a staggering 4,779 in 2023.
But here's where it gets controversial: the committee, chaired by former health minister KK Shailaja, acknowledges that the total number of children screened in each district is unknown, making a conclusive analysis challenging. This lack of data raises questions about the true extent of the issue and the effectiveness of the screening program.
And this is the part most people miss: the report also highlights a worrying trend in funding. The amount of funds utilized for the scheme has decreased annually, with a significant 73.14% of funds remaining underutilized in 2023. The committee seeks an explanation for this, but the reasons remain unclear.
Genomics expert Dr. Vinod Scaria offers a nuanced perspective. He suggests that the increasing trend of genetic disorders is not necessarily a cause for panic, as most of these diseases have one of the child's parents as carriers. However, he emphasizes the importance of testing, stating that the rising number of tests could be a positive sign, indicating that more children with treatable conditions are being identified through newborn screening.
This report raises critical questions about the health and well-being of Kerala's newborns. With the lack of comprehensive data and the mysterious underutilization of funds, the situation demands further investigation and action. What do you think? Is this an issue that needs urgent attention, or is it a case of overreaction? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's spark a conversation about this critical health concern.
