State Senator David J. Cappiello, R-Danbury, today announced that the Senate has unanimously passed legislation that requires all hospitals in Connecticut to test newborns for cystic fibrosis. For nearly four years, Sen. Cappiello has been working to make newborn screening for the disease, which affects nearly 30,000 children and adults, mandatory in all of Connecticut’s 29 hospitals. It is his hope that by identifying the disease at the absolute earliest stages, those afflicted will be able to live longer and more productive lives.

“A few years ago the legislature passed a bill that required Connecticut hospitals to screen for approximately 30 metabolic disorders. Cystic fibrosis wasn’t part of that mandate,” said Sen. Cappiello. “Twenty of the state’s 29 hospitals already screen for this disease on a voluntary basis, but we need to make certain that all hospitals are conducting this screening. I am very pleased that we were able to pass this bill with overwhelming support.”

Cystic fibrosis is an inherited disorder that occurs in one in every 3,500 live births. It causes the body to produce abnormally thick secretions that clog the lungs, causing infections; obstruct the pancreas, preventing enzymes from breaking down food in the intestines; and block the bile duct, leading to liver damage. Treatment can include digestive enzyme replacement, antibiotics, and careful monitoring.

The bill, SB 569 An Act Requiring New Infant Health Screening for Cystic Fibrosis, also adds cystic fibrosis to the other genetic diseases and metabolic disorders included in the Public Health Department's newborn screening program, which, in addition to conducting the initial screening test, directs parents of identified infants to appropriate counseling and treatment. The tests will also determine if a person is a carrier of the cystic fibrosis gene.

“Newborn screening of this disease will give children who suffer from this disease greater hope,” said Sen. Cappiello. The legislation now goes to the House of Representative for further consideration. Sen. Cappiello stated that very optimistic that the House will follow the Senate’s lead in passing the bill.