The study analyzed data from more than 1 million pregnancies in England from 2017 to 2019 and compared the early detection rates of 14 major fetal anomalies in hospitals with different ultrasound protocols.[1][2] Overall, 32.7% of anomalies were detected before 16 weeks of gestation, with hospitals with more detailed protocols detecting 40.4%, compared to only 27.7% for hospitals without a formal protocol.[1][2] Some anomalies, such as acrania (missing skull), were detected early regardless of protocol, while others, such as heart defects or limb abnormalities, were detected significantly more in centers with extended first-trimester protocols.[1][3] Three-quarters of NHS hospitals regularly performed anatomical assessment in the first trimester, but the extent of these examinations varied widely.[2][5] The authors of the study recommend the introduction of standardized national guidelines to improve the early detection of anomalies and ensure the same quality of prenatal care for all pregnant women.[1]