A novel DNA test for your newborn which looks for close to 200 genetic diseases

Eric Schadt, the CEO of Sema4 has developed a simple genetic test to identify 193 genes associated with epilepsy, metabolic conditions and anaemia. While the traditional tests involve taking a blood sample, the current test which costs $649, takes only a saliva swab from the kid's cheek and intends to be a supplement to existing screening tests. However, Laura Hercher from Sarah Lawrence College is skeptical since it might be a source of anxiety for parents and could open the proverbial 'can of worms'.

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