Newborn test

Experts have found a new way to screen for heart defects at birth — which could be deadly if left untreated.

Researchers in the UK studied twenty thousand seemingly healthy newborn babies over a one year period.

All the newborns were given a pulse oximetry test — a non-invasive measurement of blood oxygen levels.

When combined with standard tests, doctors were able to detect 92% of congenital heart defects.

They say this test should become a part of routine newborn care.