When did newborn screening start in Canada?

NBS in Canada originated in the 1960s, shortly after Guthrie introduced the concept of PKU screening. Canada is the second largest geographical country in the world and has a population of 35.19 million

Is genetic screening legal in Canada?

Canadian law now prohibits any person from requiring an individual to undergo a genetic test or to disclose the existing results of genetic tests. Essentially, the Genetic Non-Discrimination Act puts you in control of your personal information.

Is newborn screening mandatory in Canada?

Health care providers are responsible for ensuring that all babies born in Canada are offered newborn screening. This screening identifies babies who need more testing. It does not provide a diagnosis. Screening is considered to be the standard of care for every baby but is not mandatory. For those with PKU they are born perfectly normal (with a broken enzyme) without being identified via this testing - they can be irreversibly damaged before being identified.