What if I told you that a single strand of DNA holds the power to shape our bodies in miraculous ways? Yet, sometimes, this intricate process goes awry, giving rise to birth defects, also known as congenital anomalies. These defects can result in a range of symptoms, from subtle differences to more noticeable challenges. According to the latest data from World Health Organization (WHO), more than 1.7 million children are born with birth defects every year in India.
Dr Hari Kishan Boorugu, Consultant Physician and Diabetologist, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, explained congenital anomalies, their symptoms, causes, and prevention tips.
What Are Congenital Anomalies
Dr Boorugu said, “Congenital anomalies are structural or functional abnormalities present at birth. These abnormalities affect approximately 2%-4% of newborns. It may be minor like polydactyly (having an extra finger) to a major birth defect like heart defects and neurological defects. Birth defects may have cosmetic implications besides medical and surgical implications. They may occur in isolation or combination.
Also Read: 7 Types of Birth Defects: Symptoms And Treatment For Newborn
Symptoms Of Congenital Anomalies
The symptoms and indicators of congenital defects can vary greatly depending on the nature and severity of the disorder. Some anomalies are visible before birth, whereas others emerge later in infancy or youth. Here are some common symptoms related to congenital anomalies:
Physical Abnormalities
These can include visible malformations, such as cleft lip or palate, limb abnormalities, heart defects, facial dysmorphisms, or abnormal growth.
Developmental Delays
Some congenital anomalies may impact the development of the child. Delays in motor skills, speech and language, cognitive abilities, or social and emotional development may be observed.
Organ Dysfunction
Certain anomalies affect the function of specific organs, leading to issues, such as respiratory problems, heart murmurs, hearing loss, or kidney dysfunction.
Intellectual or Learning Disabilities
In some cases, congenital anomalies may be associated with intellectual disabilities, learning difficulties, or behavioural challenges.
Also Read: Check Out These 4 Surgical Treatment Options For Birth Defects; Expert Says Don't Ignore Or Delay
Causes Of Congenital Anomalies
Dr Boorugu said that several causes may be associated with birth defects but the exact cause of the congenital anomaly in many instances may be unknown. However, some of the causes that may lead to birth defects are as follows:
- Genetic abnormalities, such as gene mutations or chromosomal disorders can significantly contribute to the development of congenital anomalies.
- Environmental factors, such as exposure to certain medications, toxins, chemicals, radiation, and infections during pregnancy.
How To Prevent Congenital Anomalies
While not all congenital anomalies can be prevented, there are steps that expectant parents can take to minimise the risk. Some of the measures that may be useful in this regard are as follows:
- Taking folic acid supplementation when a woman is planning pregnancy
- Vaccination against rubella
- Screening for syphilis before planning a pregnancy or in early pregnancy
- Using tests involving radiation exposure judiciously
- Food and water hygiene to prevent toxoplasmosis
- Some drugs used for fits, HIV, rheumatological conditions, cancers, etc, may be associated with increased incidence of birth defects. Women with these problems need to have pre-pregnancy counselling and modification of drugs which are safer during pregnancy.
Disclaimer
The information in this article is provided by the expert, however, we recommend you consult your expert for a diagnosis catered to your needs and medical history.