Did you know that birth defects are the leading cause of infant mortality in the United States? In this article, we will discuss three things that you may not have known about birth defects.
- Birth Defects Are Common — Birth defects can affect each child differently, with some birth defects being more severe than others. However, birth defects are common in the United States, affecting about 1 in 33 babies every year according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
- Most Birth Defects Cannot Be Prevented — While some birth defects can be prevented through healthy lifestyle choices, such as taking folic acid during pregnancy to help reduce the risk of neural tube birth defects, most birth defects are caused by factors out of mom’s control.
- Early Detection Is Important — While some birth defects may not be preventable, early detection is key to helping children get the treatment and support they need. Depending on the birth defect, some can be detected through prenatal care, such as ultrasound imaging or amniocentesis.
Birth defects are a serious issue in the United States—affecting 1 in 33 babies each year. Despite the seriousness of birth defects, many people are unaware of its causes and potential risks.