Newborn Screening (NBS)

NBS tests newborns for serious, often life-threatening disorders that are not always apparent at birth. To screen newborns, a small blood sample is taken by pricking the heel.

Although NBS is conducted throughout Canada, the conditions screened vary from province to province. Currently, Alberta, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and British Columbia screen newborns for cystic fibrosis. Learn more about our newborn screening advocacy efforts in Quebec and the Atlantic Provinces.

Read Newborn Screening for Cystic Fibrosis.

Why do we support newborn screening?

• early diagnosis and treatment for cystic fibrosis
• reduces hospital stays
• increases longevity
• improves height, weight and lung function
• provides a better start in life

We work with CF clinics and volunteers to encourage provinces to add cystic fibrosis to their provincial NBS programs.

Information and Support

• CF Clinics in Canada
• Cystic Fibrosis Canada Chapters
• Ontario Newborn Screening Program
• Saskatchewan Newborn Screening
• Manitoba Newborn Screening Program
• Alberta Newborn Screening Program
• British Columbia Newborn Screening Program
• Carrier Testing for Cystic Fibrosis

Reviewed/updated: 2012-08-13