Genome sequencing of babies on Manx Care radar

Island's health body will keep public informed

A pilot project to provide cradle to grave genome sequencing of 100,000 new-born babies in England is being monitored by Manx Care.

It could identify around 200 treatable, rare genetic diseases at an early stage.

The £105 million scheme by Genomics England, on behalf of the UK Department of Health and Social Care, could pave the way for routine testing of all babies

Manx Care has told Manx Radio NHS England monitors the delivery of the genomic service in the UK and the Genomic Medicine Service Alliance is responsible for extending testing throughout its network.

The health body will be determining its plans of extending the service to Crown Dependencies, including the Isle of Man, and has given an assurance that the public will be kept informed.

Researchers will be focussing their attention on diseases that are treatable and affect children up to the age of five.