THE ROLE OF PRENATAL SCREENING IN IDENTIFYING CONGENITAL PATHOLOGIES

Abstract

Prenatal screening plays a critical role in the early identification of congenital
pathologies, enabling timely intervention and management to improve neonatal outcomes.
Congenital anomalies, which affect approximately 3% of live births, can have significant
physical, developmental, and psychological impacts on affected children and their families. This
article explores the various prenatal screening methods, including ultrasound, maternal serum
screening, and non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), and their effectiveness in detecting
congenital pathologies such as chromosomal abnormalities, neural tube defects, and structural
anomalies. The importance of integrating advanced screening technologies with genetic
counseling and patient education is emphasized to ensure informed decision-making and optimal
care.