Test ‘can detect 95%’ of genetic problems in foetuses

AN Irish doctor, who developed a two-stage test that can detect about 95% of Down syndrome and other genetic problems in unborn children, has been awarded two international awards for his pioneering work.

Professor Fergal Malone was honoured for best research and presentation by the US-based Society for Maternal Foetal Medicine.

The professor, based at the Rotunda Hospital in Dublin, took screening for foetal abnormalities a step further by combining two sets of ultrasound and blood tests to give the best possible result.