Dear Representative of a National Human Genetics Society,
We would like to inform you of recent developments in Greece concerning the future of newborn screening. The Greek government has moved to entrust this critical public health programme to private organisations, without prior consultation with families or relevant stakeholders.
In response, the ESHG has issued a statement expressing serious concerns about the lack of transparency and public engagement, as well as the premature adoption of wide-range genetic testing outside a proper research framework.
We stress that effective newborn screening must involve broad public consultation, clear communication about data use, and robust safeguards to maintain public trust – not only in Greece, but across Europe.
You can read the full ESHG statement here:
* News: https://www.eshg.org/news
* For Media: https://www.eshg.org/news-home/for-media/2025-press-releases
We would also like to inform you that following complaints, the agreement between the FirstSteps newborn screening program and the Ministry of Health was terminated<https://www-iatropedia-gr.translate.goog/eidiseis/to-firststeps-aposyrthike-apo-ti-symvasi-gia-ton-neogniko-elegcho-me-to-ypourgeio-ygeias-meta-tis-katangelies/205828/?_x_tr_sl=el&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=el&_x_tr_pto=wapp>.
Contact
ESHG – European Society of Human Genetics
c/o Vienna Medical Academy
