‘Create awareness on causes of birth defects’

Chennai

What are the most common birth defects?  

Birth defects can be genetic, infectious, nutritional or environmental in origin. The most common birth defects in South-East Asia are heart defects, neural tube defects and Down’s syndrome. Birth defects are a major cause of still-births and neonatal mortality. The genetic ones are primarily due to chromosomal abnormalities and are difficult to prevent. But the ones that are caused by infections or from the environment can be prevented.

How can they be prevented?  

Birth defect causes are difficult to narrow down upon. That is a huge challenge. Creating awareness among the public on the causes of birth defects and empowering them to take preventive measures is an important step to reducing their prevalence. Many birth defects can be prevented by taking appropriate measures before and during pregnancy. Rubella vaccination, adequate intake of folic acid, iodine through fortification of staple foods and salt or supplements, and adequate antenatal care are keys steps for prevention of birth defects.

Why is World Birth Defects Day observed by WHO?  

World Birth Defects Day becomes important amid the global spotlight on Zika virus disease and its strongly suspected causal relation with clusters of microcephaly and other neurological abnormalities. Globally, 1 in 33 newborns have birth defects and an estimated 2,76, 000 babies die within the first month as a result of them. Yet, birth defects remain under-recognised.