Babies to be screened for rare condition

THE NHS has announced that all newborn babies in England will now be routinely screened and treated earlier for a rare but potentially life-threatening metabolic condition.

- By SOPHIE BUCHAN

Known as HT1 (Hereditary Tyrosinaemia Type 1), this disorder can lead to serious health complications if not detected and managed in time - including organ damage, liver failure, and, in some cases, the need for a liver transplant.

HT1 is an inherited genetic disorder that affects the way the body breaks down the amino acid tyrosine. Each year, around seven babies in the UK are diagnosed with the condition.