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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

G6PD Newborn Screen Test

Screening newborns for G6PD deficiency, a genetic condition affecting red blood cells. Early detection is key for managing potential health issues.

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

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Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
Blood sample (usually collected via heel prick).
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No special preparation is required for the newborn.
Test priceKSh 585

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the G6PD Newborn Screen Test test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

  • Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
  • A clinician's request / prescription for the test
  • Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

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Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

01

Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

  • ✓Newborn screening
  • ✓Family history of G6PD deficiency
  • ✓Infants with jaundice
  • ✓Infants with unexplained anemia
  • ✓Assessment before exposure to triggering medications or foods
  • ✓Infants from high-risk ethnic groups
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

Identifies G6PD deficiency in newborns, enabling early management to prevent complications like hemolytic anemia and severe jaundice.
The G6PD Newborn Screen Test is a vital diagnostic procedure that screens newborns for Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. This is a genetic condition where the body doesn't have enough of the G6PD enzyme, which can lead to hemolytic anemia and other serious health issues if not identified early. This test is crucial for ensuring the well-being of infants, particularly in populations where G6PD deficiency is prevalent.

This test measures the levels of the G6PD enzyme in the blood. Low levels or absence of this enzyme can result in the destruction of red blood cells, leading to anemia and other complications. Early detection allows for timely intervention and management.

All newborns should be considered for this test, especially those with a family history of G6PD deficiency or related genetic disorders, or those exhibiting symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, or unusual paleness. The test is particularly important for infants in high-risk populations.
03

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

Meet the DNA Labs Kenya medical team →
04

A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

1

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

2

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

3

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

05

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →
PreparationNo special preparation is required for the newborn.
SampleBlood sample (usually collected via heel prick).
MethodologyEnzymatic assay or other approved screening methods.
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This screening test may not detect all forms of G6PD deficiency. Further testing may be needed in some cases. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
06

Read your report

What common result terms mean

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.
NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.
VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.
07

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

G6PD deficiency is a genetic condition where the body lacks sufficient G6PD enzyme, potentially leading to red blood cell breakdown (hemolytic anemia) when exposed to certain triggers.
Early detection allows parents and doctors to take precautions, such as avoiding certain medications or foods, to prevent potentially severe health complications in the infant.
An abnormal result indicates a possible G6PD deficiency. Your pediatrician will discuss the result, its implications, and recommend appropriate management strategies.
The sample is typically collected via a quick heel prick, which may cause minimal discomfort.
Insurance coverage varies. Please check with your insurance provider regarding coverage for this test.
We have branches across major cities in Kenya and offer home sample collection services. Contact us at +254711564616 to book.
08

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

Explore partnerships
09

Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

  • ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
  • ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
  • LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
  • ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

  • Last updated: September 27, 2026
  • Medical review: not yet completed
  • Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

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