Australia adds Galactosaemia tests to Victoria newborn screening programme

The genetic condition affects the body’s ability to metabolise galactose.

The Australian government has announced that testing for galactosaemia, a rare genetic condition, will be included in Victoria’s newborn bloodspot screening programme.

The programme, commonly known as the "heel prick test," is offered free to parents of all newborns within their first 72 hours of life.

Galactosaemia affects the body’s ability to metabolise galactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products

Treatment consists of restricting dietary galactose, such as replacing dairy milk with lactose-free formulas.