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Each year in the United States, more than 150,000 infants are born with birth defects, and nearly 290,000 babies are born weighing less than 5.5 pounds (2500 grams). Babies born too small or too soon are far more likely to die in the first year of life. Annually, nearly 4,000 infants die of low birthweight and prematurity. Among those who survive, an estimated 2 to 5 percent have disabilities, and one-quarter of the smallest survivors (born weighing less than 1500 grams) have serious disabilities such as mental retardation, cerebal palsy, seizure disorders, or blindness. There is a strong relationship between lack of prenatal care and giving birth to a low or a very low birthweight infant.
While the causes of many birth defects are still unknown, many birth defects are known to be caused by:
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Heredity: A genetic factor can be the sole cause of a birth defect. Some inborn errors of metabolism are due to a single defective gene inherited from each parent.
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Environmental Factors: A factor such as maternal illnesses (e.g. diabetes) or infections (e.g. rubella), drug, alcohol, or chemical exposure may be the sole or partial cause of a birth defect.
- Perinatal Damage: May occur during pregnancy and/or delivery. For example, infants born prematurely may develop cerebral palsy, mental retardation, or have vision and/or hearing loss.
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Multifactorial Origins: multiple genetic and environmental factors may interact to cause a wide range of birth defects. Examples include cleft lip or palate, spina bifida and congenital heart defects.
Deliver the Best
Pregnancy is a very special time. What you eat and what you do -- and don't do -- will make a lasting difference in your baby's life. A baby's organs begin to form in the first eight weeks of pregnancy. If you're pregnant or planning to be in the future, it's important to start making healthy choices right now. Seeing your doctor for a pre-pregnancy checkup, taking folic acid every day and adopting a healthy lifestyle will help you have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.
Your New Family
Congratulations! You've brought your baby home and are beginning your new life together. Keep in mind your baby is an individual and if you have any questions about what's best for him of her, always consult your health care provider.
Having a Healthy Baby
The March of Dimes wants all parents to know the joy of having a healthy baby. Throughout your life, there are choices you can make and steps you can take to help your future baby, your expected baby, or your newborn be healthy.
Think Ahead
If you're thinking about having a baby now or in the future, there are things you can do before you conceive to help your baby be born healthy. It's important to keep in mind that you could be pregnant for several weeks before you even realize it. During those early weeks, your baby's vital organs are beginning to form. This is a crucial time so it's important that you be prepared for this possibility in order to give your baby the best chance for a health start in life.
Prevention Through Quality Prenatal Care
Prenatal care -- beginning early and continuing throughout pregnancy -- is a key factor in preventing low birthweight and prematurity. Using early risk assessment, providers can identify potential problems during prenatal visits, and steps can be taken to reduce risks. The March of Dimes is working to eliminate barriers to prenatal care. Worksite prenatal health promotions efforts are leading community programs which seek to increase access to quality care.
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