Newborn screening in southeastern Europe

The aim of our study was to assess the current state of newborn screening (NBS) in the region of southeastern Europe, as an example of a developing region, focusing also on future plans. Responses were obtained from 11 countries. Phenylketonuria screening was not introduced in four of 11 countries, while congenital hypothyroidism screening was not introduced in three of them; extended NBS programs were non-existent. The primary challenges were identified. Implementation of NBS to developing countries worldwide should be considered as a priority. •Many developing countries lack efficient newborn screening program.•Current state of newborn screening in southeastern Europe was assessed.•Main challenges were absence or incompleteness of newborn screening.•Comprehensive newborn screening implementation is urgently needed.