Ways to fight birth defects in Kenya

Birth defects, also known as congenital anomalies, are structural or functional abnormalities present at birth that can affect various parts of the body. They affect infants regardless of birthplace, race and ethnicity. There are several types of birth defects such as club foot, cleft palate, spina bifida, down syndrome and congenital heart disease just to mention a few.

Birth defects can occur at any stage during pregnancy and can be found before birth, at birth or any time after birth all depending on the type of birth defect with most being detected within the first year of birth. 

Identifying birth defects varies within the spectrum, with some defects being easy to see such as cleft palate whereas others like heart defects require screening and special tests for them to be detected.

The causes of birth defects vary depending on the type of defect and condition ranging from genetics, environmental factors, infections during pregnancy and exposure to medicines, chemicals or other toxic substances. However, the cause is unknown in some defects. 

Factors that increase the chances of having a baby with birth defect include smoking, drinking alcohol during pregnancy, having certain medical conditions, taking certain medication and having certain infections during pregnancy.

Preventing birth defects is a possible feat though not all defects are preventable. Some of the cautionary measures one may take to increase their chances of having a healthy baby include having a healthy lifestyle before and during pregnancy, avoiding harmful substances such as alcohol during pregnancy and having regular prenatal checkups from their healthcare provider throughout the pregnancy. 

Observing the world birth defects day helps in educating the public on birth defects, the conditions that come with it, the causes and prevention. These all play a huge role in reducing birth defects cases and the stigma that surrounds it. 

Together, we can join hands and raise the birth defects flag higher so as to improve the survival and well-being of newborns and better the lives of those living with various birth defect conditions. Let us fight birth defects!