Phenylketonuria (PKU) is an inherited condition. It happens when a particular enzyme in your body is missing or not working.
Babies in Ireland with PKU
About 1 in 4,000 babies born in Ireland have PKU. With early diagnosis and treatment most go on to live healthy lives.
How heel prick screening can help
Babies are checked for PKU as part of heel prick screening. They are offered heel prick screening when they are around 5 days old. This test also checks for other conditions.
A midwife or nurse takes a few drops of blood from your baby's heel using a special device.
If your baby has PKU, treatment will start straight away. This is to help prevent complications.
Treatment includes a special diet and regular blood tests.
