A north-east MP has called on the Prime Minister to back his bid to introduce screening of babies for a rare genetic condition.
The 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome, also known as DiGeorge syndrome, affects around one in every 3,000 people.
Its symptoms can include learning problems, mental health issues, infections and also rheumatoid arthritis.
Banff and Buchan MP David Duguid wants regular screening to be introduced because at the moment checks are only carried if babies show signs of the condition.
Mr Duguid was made aware of the condition by Banff mum Louise Henderson, whose son Alfie has it.
Since then he has worked with the charity Max Appeal to introduce 22q screening into heel prick tests that are already given to babies.
Mr Duguid asked Theresa May to lend her support his campaign during Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday.
He said: “After much representation from the charity Max Appeal, the national screening committee is, for the first time, considering adding 22q11 syndrome to the newborn blood spot test.
“This second most common chromosomal disorder after Down’s syndrome can lead to avoidable mental health issues if not diagnosed and managed from a young age.”
Theresa May said she would speak to health officials to look at the idea.
The Prime Minister said: “I will ask the Department of Health and Social Care for an appropriate minister to respond to him, and possibly meet and talk to him about this issue.”
