Pediatric Provider Insight Into Newborn Screening for Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency

Abstract

Objective. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is a major contributor to neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, yet newborn screening for this disorder in the United States is not standard practice. We surveyed pediatric providers regarding a novel newborn G6PD screening program successfully implemented in 2007 at a US urban women’s hospital newborn nursery. Study Design. An electronic survey was distributed to 472 pediatric providers addressing extent to which they were influenced by the screening program. Results. Ninety-two (20%) providers responded, of whom 74 (80%) had taken care of G6PD-deficient patients diagnosed by the screening program. A majority found the diagnosis helpful for patient management and influential in their management. Most common changes in management included more counseling on jaundice and follow-up and avoidance of hemolytic crisis triggers. Conclusions. General pediatric providers support newborn G6PD screening and appreciate the current program. Knowing the G6PD deficiency status of newborns informed and influenced pediatric providers’ care.