Congenital Malformations
Congenital Disorders: How They Affect Health from Birth
Most babies are born healthy, but when a baby has a condition that is present from birth, it is called a congenital disorder. Congenital disorders can be inherited or caused by environmental factors and their impact on a child’s health and development can vary from mild to severe. A child with a congenital disorder may experience a disability or health problems throughout life.
Congenital disorders are:
- Cleft lip and Cleft palate
- Cerebral palsy
- Fragile X syndrome
- Down syndrome
- Spina bifida
- Cystic fibrosis
- Heart conditions
Causes
Genetic and environmental factors that can result in congenital anomalies, but only half can be directly linked to a specific cause. Some congenital anomalies can be prevented through vaccination and a supplemental diet.