Great Ormond Street Hospital launches 'safer' new test for Down's Syndrome

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The new test involves a simple blood test taken from the expectant mother's arm Credit: PA Wire

A new, non-invasive, prenatal test, which offers expectant mothers a 99% accurate test for Down's Syndrome, has been launched.

Previously, tests available on the NHS involve a combined test of an ultrasound scan and a blood test and has an accuracy rate of 84-90%.

Women found to be at higher risk can then opt for further tests, such as amniocentesis - but this carries a one in 100 risk of miscarriage.

The new test, known as the NIPT (non-invasive prenatal test), can only currently be carried out at Great Ormond Street Hospital.

It also involves a blood test but reduces the need for further invasive tests.

Due to its increased accuracy, NIPT means it produces less 'false positives' than the traditional combined screening - reducing the number of women unnecessarily referred for invasive tests which carry around a one in 100 risk of causing a miscarriage.

The new test also screens for the rare genetic conditions Edward's syndrome and Patau syndrome.

Expectant mothers can find more information on the Great Ormond Street website or by contacting their local maternity unit to find out whether it will provide the test to eligible parents.