We are BEACONS.
Genomic newborn screening responsibly studied within U.S. public health systems.
Building Evidence and Collaboration for GenOmics in Nationwide Newborn Screening
The Three Pillars.
BEACONS is the first NIH-funded national research partnership with state newborn screening programs, offering families the option of genomic screening for childhood conditions where early detection can lead to treatment, proactive management, or closer monitoring.
Finding conditions early, when treatment can make the biggest difference.
Early Action
Making genomic screening available to families through state newborn screening programs.
Access
Built with families, communities, and state newborn screening programs working together.
Partnership
Newborn screening already saves the lives of thousands of babies each year by detecting rare diseases that might otherwise go unnoticed until it’s too late for treatment.
BEACONS builds on this foundation by working with state newborn screening programs to study how genomic sequencing could expand these benefits, offering families the option to learn about hundreds of additional childhood conditions where early knowledge may guide care, management, or prevention.
The Future Begins Now.
01
The Basics
Parents in participating states may choose optional genome sequencing for their newborn to look for conditions treatable in the first year of life.
02
The Study
We work with a Community Advisory Board, state public health laboratories, clinicians, and advocates to design, test, and learn—together.
03
The Goal
Learn whether and how genomic newborn screening can be offered responsibly, fairly, and sustainably within state public health newborn screening programs.