Go Unlimited with Magzter GOLD
Get unlimited access to 10,000+ magazines, newspapers and Premium stories for just
Try GOLD - Free
DNA screening for every baby to predict diseases
The Independent
|June 21, 2025
All babies could have their DNA mapped to test for future illnesses under a plan unveiled by the government, it has been reported.
Labour is set to pour £650m into DNA technology in an effort to treat serious illnesses before they become a problem.
In comments first reported in the Daily Telegraph, health secretary Wes Streeting said new technology in areas such as genomics would help "leapfrog" illnesses.
The outlet says that within a decade every baby will undergo whole genome sequencing as part of the drive.
The investment in genomics is expected to support the government's 10-year plan for the NHS, which will see a greater focus on technology and prevention.
This story is from the June 21, 2025 edition of The Independent.
Subscribe to Magzter GOLD to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 10,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
MORE STORIES FROM The Independent
The Independent
SPECIAL DELIVERY
A new exhibition marks 40 years of ‘The Jolly Postman’. The Ahlbergs’ daughter, Jessica, talks to Jessie Thompson about how her parents created such an enduring children’s classic
6 mins
February 25, 2026
The Independent
Brook powers England into T20 World Cup semi-finals
Harry Brook carried England into the T20 World Cup semifinals, delivering a captain's innings of the highest order in a nervy two-wicket win over Pakistan in Pallekele.
3 mins
February 25, 2026
The Independent
Documents relating to Andrew must be published as quickly as possible
“We must not let in daylight upon magic.” The great 19th-century constitutionalist Walter Bagehot’s injunction concerning royalty has become something of a cliché, and an anachronistic one at that.
3 mins
February 25, 2026
The Independent
The fallout from the cuts in foreign aid is still spreading
A year since the government cut international development aid by 40 per cent, the repercussions of the move are being keenly felt in Kenya, writes health worker Kristine Yakhama
3 mins
February 25, 2026
The Independent
Reform will ‘reset Britain’s sexual culture’, says Kruger
Reform MP Danny Kruger has announced that the party wants to “reset” Britain’s sexual culture as he attacked the levels of divorce in the UK.
2 mins
February 25, 2026
The Independent
It’s time the humble address were forgotten about again
When Keir Starmer, in his role as the shadow Brexit secretary, rediscovered the old parliamentary device of “an humble address”, he was pleased with himself.
3 mins
February 25, 2026
The Independent
MP suggests Epstein helped Andrew get trade envoy job
Jeffrey Epstein may have played a role in Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor becoming a UK trade envoy, a shadow minister has suggested, as the government agreed to release the bombshell documents related to his appointment.
4 mins
February 25, 2026
The Independent
Will Carrick get the thumbs up for a permanent role?
Michael Carrick's common-sense revolution has brought a sense of calm to a club frazzled by constant crisis. Could he be Man United's long-term solution, asks Richard Jolly
3 mins
February 25, 2026
The Independent
Who will win the Gorton and Denton by-election?
Keir Starmer’s surprise appearance on the Gorton and Denton by-election campaign trail has provoked some very fanciful speculation that Labour might actually hold one of its safest seats.
3 mins
February 25, 2026
The Independent
Wounded Pride: how the Church neglects gay people
Recently bishops voted 34-0 to block gay couples from being blessed in standalone ceremonies, even if it’s allowed during services. To Alan Rusbridger it looks a lot like discrimination
5 mins
February 25, 2026
Listen
Translate
Change font size