July is Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month and I’ve started doing a series of videos on YouTube about Clefts.

What is a cleft?

One of the most common types of birth defects in the United States, affecting 1 in 600 births. During formation of a fetus, the lip (4-7 weeks) and/or palate (6-9 weeks) does not completely form, leaving a gap in the lip/palate.

What causes a cleft?

While there are some genetic causes, most are isolated occurrences. Little is known about the actual cause of Cleft Lip and Palates, but they do see increased chances with the mother drinks alcohol, smokes cigarettes, has diabetes, and takes certain medications.

Treatment

Surgery in the first few months is recommended for children with cleft lip with surgery before 18 months for cleft palates. Subsequent medical care may be required to improve appearance, hearing, speech, breathing, and language development. Extensive dental work is also often needed. Additional surgeries and treatment may be required as cleft lips and palates in adulthood.

Please check out my YouTube channel for even more information.