What is Newborn Screening?

Texas first began a newborn screening program in 1965, after a test for phenylketonuria (PKU) was developed. The test was done through dried blood spots on a special filter paper with blood taken from a baby’s heel. PKU was one of the most common reasons for intellectual disability at the time, but it could be treated if caught early enough.

Over the last six decades, newborn screening programs across the country have evolved into one of the largest life-saving public health programs in history. Using dried blood spot testing methods, screening panels have expanded over the years to include tests for several more conditions. In 2025, more than 387,000 babies were screened in Texas. The DSHS Public Health Laboratory received 754,886 specimens, and Clinical Care Coordination staff provided follow-up on approximately 20,000 abnormal screens. More than 1,000 infants are diagnosed with core diseases annually. Through testing and early intervention, these infants receive the healthiest start to their lives. 

Please see the link to our annual report for additional information. NBS Annual Report | Texas DSHS