Are they serious?

Birth defects or congenital defects are abnormal conditions that occur before or during childbirth.  Some are slight like an extra toe or finger, representing little risk for the life and wellbeing of the baby.  Others are very serious, as a heart or spine defect.  They can cause physical, mental or medical problems.  Some, such as Down Syndrome or anemia of falciform cells, are caused by genetic factors.  Others are caused by some types of drugs, medications or chemical products.

The causes for most congenital defects are still unknown.  Researchers are working hard to discover the causes of these defects and finding ways to prevent them.

From another point of view, of epidemiology and economy of health services, congenital defects are a truly serious problem.  One out of 33 babies is born with a type of defect.  Many people think that congenital defects only affect other people.  But they can happen – and happen- in any family.  In the USA, for example, 120,000 babies born each year have congenital defects.

Currently, babies that are born with congenital defects can live longer and healthier lives.  Special care after birth and tests on the newborn can help these babies.

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