Screening for genetic disorders.

The past 50 years in developed countries have seen a steady decline 
in infant mortality from diseases associated with infections and malnutrition. During 
the period the contribution from genetic diseases and congenital malformations has 
risen significantly. Genetically oriented screening programs have a high potential to 
contribute to the overall improvement of health in both developed and 
underdeveloped countries. In this review only procedures for screening for hereditary 
biochemical disorders will be considered. Criteria for selection of genetic traits 
to be screened, the schedule for screening, specimens for screening, the 
screening of newborn infants, the testing of older infants, the testing 
of high-risk infants and children, the screening of families with genetic 
diseases, and screening for carriers in selected populations are discussed. 