Newborn screening for cystic fibrosis: pros and cons

Educational aims To give an insight into the arguments that have led to the implementation of newborn screening for cystic fibrosis in routine screening programmes. To understand the drawbacks specifically associated with newborn screening for cystic fibrosis and how these can be handled or avoided. Summary During the past decade, newborn screening for cystic fibrosis has been introduced in many countries. However, the disadvantages associated with newborn screening for CF hamper its introduction in other areas.