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The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) will begin testing newborns for Krabbe disease on March 2, 2026, through the Kansas Newborn Screening Program.

The program checks babies shortly after birth using a small blood sample. That single test can screen for more than 37 serious and sometimes life-threatening conditions. Many of these health problems cannot be seen at birth or during regular doctor visits. Each year, more than 35,000 Kansas newborns are screened.

Krabbe disease is a rare disorder that affects the nervous system. It damages the protective covering around nerves, which can lead to serious problems such as muscle stiffness, vision and hearing loss, and severe brain and nerve damage. About one in every 100,000 babies is diagnosed with the disease.

Health officials say finding Krabbe disease early gives families a better chance to begin treatment quickly and improve a child’s long-term health. More information is available on the KDHE Newborn Screening Program webpage.