Views of Mothers about National Newborn Screening Tests Performed in Turkey

Abstract

Background: Newborn screening tests for detecting numerous congenital diseases that may cause disability or death were performed first in 2006 in Turkey. Newborn screenings for Phenylketonuria and congenital hypothyroidism have increased in recent years due to the emergence of new diseases. It is essential for healthcare personnel and families to carry out these screening programs in a timely, accurate, and efficient manner. Informing families, particularly mothers, about these screening tests will help more newborn babies benefit from these tests. Objectives: This study aimed to explore mothers' views about newborn screening programs in Turkey. Methods: This descriptive and cross-sectional study included 112 volunteer mothers and was conducted at Zekai Tahir Burak Hospital, Ankara, Turkey, from December 2018 to January 2019. Results: Although mothers in Turkey were to some extent informed about the screening tests, they did not have sufficient information regarding the objective of these tests. Moreover, the majority of mothers expressed a positive opinion about the tests and stated that they would have these tests done even if they had to pay for them. Conclusion: Based on the obtained results, although mothers in turkey were not sufficiently knowledgeable about screening tests and their objectives, they expressed positive views about these tests. Therefore, it is recommended that families should be informed about newborn screening tests through mass media, educational environments (pregnancy schools), and screening test centers. Therefore, it is important to organize in-service training for midwives and nurses to raise their awareness in this regard.