The INFANT Study

Are you pregnant or have a baby under 6 months old?

INFANT is a Canadian research study looking at a new kind of newborn screening using DNA, called genomic newborn screening (gNBS). This screening test looks at a baby’s DNA to find rare genetic conditions early in life. Finding these conditions early can help infants get the care and treatment they need sooner.

Who can participate?

Babies may be eligible to participate who:

-          Received standard newborn screening from Newborn Screening Ontario

-          Aged 0 to 6 months old

-          Born in Ontario

Expecting parents may register their interest and sign consent after birth.

The study uses the same blood sample collected for standard newborn screening and uses next-generation sequencing to screen for more than 200 conditions. Earlier identification may allow babies to receive treatment, monitoring, or other care before symptoms develop.

The research will help inform the future of newborn screening in Ontario and how genomic approaches could support earlier, more targeted care for babies and children.

Learn more about the INFANT Study and how to participate.

Are you a healthcare professional who would like to help support the INFANT Study?

The INFANT study is looking for clinics and healthcare providers who would like to display study recruitment posters and flyers in their clinic or waiting area so that families can learn more about this important research.

If you are interested in supporting the study in this capacity, reach out to the INFANT study team at infant@cheo.on.ca or fill an online request form through the link below.

Find out how to support the INFANT Study recruitment.