Baby becomes hospital's first to join genome study

A newborn has become the first baby from Peterborough to be tested for 200 rare genetic conditions as part of a national study.

The North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Peterborough and Hinchingbrooke hospitals, is among 50 trusts taking part in the genome sequencing.

Blood samples are taken, usually from the umbilical cord, and tested for genetic changes where symptoms might not present until later in childhood.

Expectant parents who attend either Peterborough or the Huntingdon site can ask about the study during their pregnancy.

The tests can lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment of rare conditions.

Helen Wilson, one of the trust's paediatric research nurses and principal investigator for the study, said the study was a "great way of improving outcomes for many newborns".

"We are excited to be able to offer this opportunity to many more families over the next 12 months," she said.

The project is being led by Genomics England and NHS England.

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