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1.01.2025

January is Birth Defects Awareness Month: What Families Should Know and What to Do

Each year, during the month of January, National Birth Defects Prevention Month is observed across the United States. This important observance provides an opportunity to raise awareness about birth defects, encourage prevention, and offer support to families affected by these conditions. 

For families with young children, especially those who may be facing health challenges, Birth Defects Awareness Month is an invaluable time to learn more about potential risks, preventive steps, and available resources.

For Nevada families, First 5 Nevada can help in providing educational resources, support, and advocacy to help families thrive. Understanding the significance of this month, and what families can do, can empower parents to be proactive in supporting their child’s health and well-being. 

Here’s what families should know about Birth Defects Awareness Month 2025, and how they can get involved.

What Are Birth Defects?

Birth defects are structural or functional abnormalities that are present at birth. They can affect nearly any part of the body, from the brain and heart to limbs and organs. 

Birth defects can vary in severity, from minor conditions that do not require treatment to major defects that can cause life-threatening complications or lifelong challenges.

Birth defects are among the leading causes of infant mortality and can impact a child’s development, growth, and quality of life. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 33 babies born in the United States each year is affected by a birth defect. These can be genetic, caused by environmental factors, or the result of a combination of both.

Some common types of birth defects include:

• Heart Defects: These are the most common type of congenital condition, involving structural abnormalities in the heart.
• Neural Tube Defects: These affect the brain and spinal cord, such as spina bifida.
• Cleft Lip and Palate: A gap in the upper lip or the roof of the mouth that can interfere with feeding, speech, and hearing.
• Down Syndrome: A chromosomal disorder that affects development, causing intellectual and physical challenges.
• Clubfoot: A condition where a baby’s foot is turned inward or downward.
• Hearing or Vision Impairments: These can range from mild to severe, affecting a child’s ability to hear or see properly.

The Importance of Birth Defects Awareness Month

Birth Defects Awareness Month is a time for communities to come together, reflect on the challenges that families affected by birth defects face, and raise awareness about the importance of prevention, early detection, and support systems.

 It is a time to educate parents and caregivers about birth defects, how they can reduce the risk, and what steps they can take if they have concerns about their child's health.

One of the most important messages of Birth Defects Awareness Month is that many birth defects can be prevented. By adopting healthy habits before and during pregnancy, families can reduce the risk of some birth defects. 

In some cases, early screening and diagnosis can lead to better outcomes for children who are born with birth defects.

What Families Can Do: Prevention and Awareness

While not all birth defects can be prevented, there are several key steps that families can take to reduce the risk. Here are some prevention strategies that parents and caregivers should consider:

1. Prenatal Care and Early Screenings: One of the best ways to reduce the risk of birth defects is to seek regular prenatal care. Health care providers can monitor the mother’s health, detect any potential risks early on, and offer guidance on how to manage them.
   Routine screenings and tests can also help identify birth defects early, giving parents the information they need to plan for necessary care after birth.
• Use First 5 Nevada’s eligibility screener to see if you qualify for Medicaid or another health insurance program. You can also learn more about prenatal care providers and where to find one that is right for you!
2. Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Certain lifestyle choices before and during pregnancy can help reduce the risk of birth defects. For example, women who are planning to become pregnant should focus on maintaining a healthy diet, taking prenatal vitamins (particularly folic acid), and avoiding harmful substances like tobacco, alcohol, and recreational drugs.
   Research has shown that adequate folic acid intake before and during early pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida.
3. Vaccinations: Some infections during pregnancy, such as rubella, can cause birth defects. Ensuring that a woman is up-to-date on her vaccinations before becoming pregnant can help prevent certain infections that may lead to congenital disabilities.
4. Managing Chronic Conditions: Managing chronic conditions such as diabetes or obesity is crucial in preventing birth defects. Women with chronic medical conditions should work closely with their healthcare provider to develop a plan for managing their condition during pregnancy.
5. Genetic Counseling: Families who have a history of birth defects or genetic conditions may benefit from genetic counseling. A genetic counselor can provide information about inherited conditions, offer testing options, and help parents understand their risk of having a child with a birth defect.
6. Avoiding Environmental Risks: Exposure to certain environmental factors, such as harmful chemicals, pesticides, or radiation, can increase the risk of birth defects. Pregnant women should avoid these risks whenever possible and be mindful of their surroundings.

What to Do If Your Child Is Born with a Birth Defect

If your child is born with a birth defect, it can be a challenging and emotional time. It’s important for families to know that they are not alone and that there are resources and support systems available to help them navigate this difficult journey. 

1. Seek Medical Care and Early Intervention: Depending on the nature and severity of the birth defect, it’s essential to work closely with your healthcare team to develop a care plan for your child. Early intervention programs, including physical therapy, speech therapy, and special education, can help children with birth defects achieve their full potential.
2. Connect with Support Groups: Many families affected by birth defects find comfort and strength in connecting with others who are going through similar experiences. Support groups, both online and in person, provide a safe space to share information, offer emotional support, and exchange resources.
3. Access Financial and Legal Resources: Some birth defects may require ongoing medical care and therapy, which can be costly. There are financial assistance programs, insurance options, and advocacy organizations that can help families access the care their children need. Families should also be aware of any legal protections they may be entitled to, such as special education services or accommodations in the workplace.

Check out First 5 Nevada for a comprehensive list of resources, supports and services.

Getting Involved: Raising Awareness

During Birth Defects Awareness Month, families can also take the opportunity to raise awareness in their communities. There are many ways to get involved:

1. Spread Information: Share facts about birth defects and prevention strategies with friends, family, and social media followers. The more people are informed, the better they can protect themselves and their children.
2. Participate in Local Events: Many communities host events during Birth Defects Awareness Month, such as health fairs, informational sessions, and fundraising campaigns. Participate in these events to learn more and show your support.
3. Support Advocacy Efforts: Support organizations that advocate for improved healthcare, services, and policies that benefit children with birth defects. Your involvement can help bring about meaningful change at the local and state levels.

Birth Defects Awareness Month is an opportunity to learn more about birth defects, their prevention, and how to support families who are affected. For Nevada families, resources like First 5 Nevada are invaluable in helping parents navigate challenges related to birth defects and early childhood development. 

By becoming informed, advocating for prevention, and supporting those affected, we can all play a part in improving the lives of children with birth defects and ensuring every child has a healthy start in life.

Sources for Additional Information:

The information in the article is drawn from a variety of trusted resources on birth defects, prevention, and family support. Below is a list of sources that informed the content:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Birth Defects: The CDC provides comprehensive information on birth defects, including their types, causes, prevalence, and prevention strategies. Their website offers educational materials about birth defects, their prevention, and general statistics.
2. National Birth Defects Prevention Network (NBDPN): This organization works to provide information about the prevention of birth defects and promotes research in the field. The NBDPN's resources focus on prevention, awareness campaigns, and guidance for families.
3. March of Dimes - Birth Defects and Prevention: This nonprofit organization is dedicated to preventing birth defects and ensuring that all babies are born healthy. March of Dimes offers information on preventing birth defects, as well as support for families facing challenges.
4. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP): The AAP offers resources for pediatricians and families about birth defects, early intervention, and child development. Their recommendations support the importance of prenatal care, screenings, and developmental assessments.

These organizations, among others, provide vital information, research, and support for families affected by birth defects. They emphasize prevention, early intervention, and the importance of access to care for affected children and their families.