Antenatal haemoglobinopathy screening: Is important but needs to be done earlier in primary care.

The author comments on a study which examined the screening program for sickle cell disease established by Great Britain's National Health Service (NHS), by E. Dormandy and colleagues, published within the issue. The study compared three antenatal screening approaches which are parallel testing, sequential testing and midwifery care. The author explains the problems associated with screening for sickle cell disease and thalassaemia. She also highlights the implications of the study findings for general practitioners.