Congenital hypothyroidism (CHT) is a disorder which affects infants from birth, and results from inadequate or absent thyroid function (hypothyroidism), generally due to failure of the thyroid gland to develop normally.
Screening for CHT began in Scotland in 1979. Early detection, treatment by replacement with appropriate amounts of thyroid hormone and long term follow-up is highly effective at preventing the physical disability and severe learning difficulties that would otherwise occur. The incidence of CHT in Scotland is approximately 1 in 3,500 births. It is more common in girls than boys, but at the moment it is not understood why this is.
The following information leaflets are available for parents and can be downloaded from the UK Newborn Screening Programme website:
Useful contact:
The British Thyroid Foundation
2nd Floor
3 Devonshire Place
Harrogate, HG1 4AA
01423 709707
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