Genome sequencing to become available to every UK new born baby

The project’s initiators propose to introduce new mandatory tests, allowing to identify dangerous health conditions at an early stage of a baby’s development.

The UK has decided to include genetic tests in the list of general tests for newborns. Matt Hancock, Minister of Health, said that personalized medicine, based on sequencing of each patient's genome, should help identify hereditary diseases and, consequently, provide timely treatment.

There were earlier proposals to do such tests for all children with cancer. Among the first in line for such tests are adults with rare diseases and complex forms of cancer.

The ambitious plans of the UK authorities involve sequencing of about 5 million genomes over the next five years.

The project’s initiators believe that the sooner a child's parents learn about an adverse diagnosis, the faster they will be able to take necessary steps. And the main thing is that these measures will be most effective.