Congenital anomalies

Congenital anomalies are structural or functional anomalies (including metabolic disorders) that occur during intrauterine life and can be identified prenatally, at birth, or sometimes may only be detected later in infancy, such as developmental delays.

Definition[edit | edit source]

The term congenital anomalies is a broad category that includes a variety of conditions. These anomalies can be as minor as a slight physical deformity that has no impact on health, or as severe as a life-threatening disease.

Types[edit | edit source]

There are many different types of congenital anomalies, including:

Congenital heart defects
Neural tube defects (such as spina bifida and anencephaly)
Cleft lip and cleft palate
Down syndrome
Sickle cell disease

Causes[edit | edit source]

The exact cause of most congenital anomalies is unknown. However, known causes can be divided into four main categories:

Genetic factors
Infections during pregnancy
Exposure to radiation or medications
Maternal health factors, such as obesity and diabetes

Prevention[edit | edit source]

While not all congenital anomalies can be prevented, a significant proportion can be avoided by:

Genetic counseling
Vaccination
Adequate intake of folic acid
Avoiding harmful substances, such as alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs
Controlling chronic diseases

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for congenital anomalies varies depending on the specific condition. It may include surgical procedures, physical therapy, medication, and support services.

See also[edit | edit source]

Congenital anomalies Resources
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