New method to detect heart disease in newborns

According to a report published in the Lancet magazine, an examination of 20,000 babies in Western Midland, England found more than 500 cases of heart defects each year.

Researchers have placed a small sensor in the hands and feet of young children to check the level of oxygen in the blood. Low oxygen levels are sent to echocardiography.

Newborn babies are generally checked by doctors at the hospital before being discharged, which helps them detect early cases of congenital heart disease.

Dr Andrew Ewer of the University of Birmingham said the study showed an accurate result of up to 92%. Mr. Ewer said: 'We expect all children to be tested periodically. By this method, doctors can detect more babies at risk of illness or even premature death . '