4 most common birth defects in India

Birth defect is a condition that occurs when a baby is still developing in the mother’s womb. Birth defects can be defined as non- development of any body part or problem in working of any bodily organ. There are several types of congenital disorders ranging from minor to major disorders. Most of the birth defects can be treated with medications and surgeries. Heart defects are the most common type of birth defects. Some of the birth defects can be prevented by providing healthy and stress free environment to the pregnant woman. There are nearly 2 million cases annually of birth defects in India.

Cleft lip or palate- Cleft lip and cleft palate is a disorder relating to the jaws and face. Cleft lip appears when there is a split in the lip. The split may vary in size and connects the upper lip and nose. A cleft palate appears when the baby’s upper lip is not developing in the mother’s womb. The palate consists of two parts, the hard palate and the soft palate. The soft palate is located inside the mouth and is made up of a soft tissue. The hard palate is the bony portion, which is visible due to the absence of the upper lip.

The treatment of Cleft lip and cleft palate includes a surgery that closes the opening and re-builds the lip. Cleft lip surgery is performed within 12 months of age and surgery of cleft palate by the age of 18 months.

Congenital Heart Defects- Congenital heart defect is a condition in which the heart of the baby is not fully developed. A congenital heart defect includes defects in arteries and veins, underdeveloped heart walls, and defect in the heart valves. Symptoms of congenital heart defect are abnormal heartbeat called a murmur, breathing problems, swelling around eyes.

A congenital heart defect can be treated with surgery, medicines, or a mechanical aid like a pacemaker.

Missing or Underdeveloped limbs-The exact cause of this birth abnormality is not known. Exposure to a hazardous chemical or virus during pregnancy can cause underdeveloped limb. That chemical or virus may not have an impact on the mother, but can create serious complications for the baby.

An artificial body part (prosthesis) may be fitted in the place of underdeveloped limb. It is advised to fit prosthesis as early as possible to make baby more habitual to it. After some years, the baby undergoes a physical therapy, which helps the baby in controlling the prosthesis.

Sickle cell disease- Sickle cell disorder is a group of diseases that results in the breakdown of red blood cells affecting the ability of red blood cells to transfer oxygen throughout the body. This disorder is also known as sickle cell anemia. Sickle cell disorder leads to deformity in the red blood cells; these cells generally live up to 120 days, but due to this disease red blood cells dies early resulting in lack of oxygen supply in the body. If sickle cell anemia is not treated in time it may damage some vital organs of the body.

This condition cannot be treated. However, intake of vitamin and mineral supplements and folic acid medicines can prevent this disorder from getting severe and provide relief from the general symptoms.