National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month

July is National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month. This month focuses on raising awareness about and prevention for a congenital condition known as cleft lip and palate. The condition can occur in the first three months of pregnancy.

There are several forms of cleft lip and palate, and each one requires a slightly different treatment. The three types of cleft lip and palate are

Cleft lip and palate can cause problems with speech, eating, hearing, and social development. Most of the time, cleft lip and palate can be easily treated with corrective surgery, allowing children born with the condition to live normal lives. However, in some cases – particularly in developing countries where access to medical care is not as widely available – children do not receive treatment. This can result in further problems as the child grows.

This month, you can help raise awareness about cleft lip and palate so that all children with the condition can receive the care and treatment they need. There are a few ways you can help: