by Nikki D. Dela Cruz, RN
The Newborn Screening Center – Central Luzon (NSC-CL) has intensified efforts to promote newborn screening (NBS) and rare disease awareness through a series of educational initiatives and advocacy events in February 2025. These activities, conducted in collaboration with healthcare institutions and educational partners, aimed to equip future healthcare practitioners with essential knowledge and foster broader community support for individuals with rare diseases.
Empowering Future Healthcare Practitioners on Newborn Screening
On February 24, 2025, the NSC-CL launched a partnership with the Systems Plus College Foundation (SPCF) to educate nursing students on the significance of Newborn Screening (NBS). Over 300 second- and fourth-year nursing students attended a lecture at the Rodolfo V. Jao Hall, SPCF, where experts from the NSC-CL provided a comprehensive overview of the NBS program.
Dr. Bernadette Halili-Mendoza, NSC-CL unit head, emphasized the role of NBS in preventing severe health complications in newborns. Dr. Crislyn Samia, NSC-CL follow-up head, detailed the conditions included in the NBS panel, while Ms. Nikki Dela Cruz, NSC-CL program development officer III, explained the procedural aspects of NBS, including blood collection, specimen submission, and follow-up for positive cases. The event highlighted the critical role of healthcare professionals in ensuring timely and accurate implementation of newborn screening, reinforcing the importance of integrating NBS into clinical practice.
Unifying Efforts for Rare Disease Awareness
In line with the 16th National Rare Disease Week (NRDW) held from February 22 to 28, 2025, the NSC-CL actively participated in advocacy efforts to support individuals with rare diseases. Themed “More than You Can Imagine,” the celebration focused on raising awareness about the challenges faced by those living with rare conditions.
As part of the observance, the NSC-CL joined Blue Jeans Day on February 28, 2025, encouraging staff and supporters to wear blue jeans in solidarity with the rare disease community. Newborn screening facilities (NSFs) in Region 3 and the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) also took part through social media campaigns, posting photos and messages of support.
By engaging in these initiatives, the NSC-CL and its partners contribute to a broader movement aimed at improving healthcare access and fostering a more inclusive society for individuals with rare diseases. Through education, advocacy, and collaboration, the NSC-CL continues to champion newborn and rare disease screening programs, ultimately striving to enhance the quality of life for affected families and communities.
