Testing fetal DNA via a blood test, called NIPT, has become increasingly common in Sweden. In public healthcare, three chromosomal abnormalities are typically analyzed: trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) and trisomies 13 and 18, with high accuracy for these conditions. However, several experts SVT spoke with are critical of the extended NIPT tests available privately.
According to experts, the extended NIPT tests lack sufficient scientific support, and when they indicate the fetus may have a rare abnormality, it is often incorrect. On the private market, several providers offer tests that cover significantly more chromosomal abnormalities—in some cases over 100. These tests are marketed as reliable and can cost up to 9,000 kronor.
Fourteen out of 21 regions report in survey responses to SVT that the use of these extended tests has increased. According to regions, the increase is noticeable through more pregnant women seeking public healthcare for further investigation, often via invasive tests—which entails a small increased risk of miscarriage. SVT sought the companies that offer the most comprehensive tests; Göteborgskliniken is the only one that responded.
For these abnormalities, the accuracy is high.