March of Dimes Birth
Defects Prevention Month
January 2004

About
Definition
Common types
Prevention

What is the March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month?

Since 1958, the March of Dimes has been funding cutting-edge research and innovative programs to save babies from birth defects, premature birth, and low birth weight. To increase awareness of these important public health issues, January has been designated as Birth Defects Prevention Month.
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What are birth defects?

Birth defects are abnormalities of structure, function, or body metabolism that are present at birth and lead to physical or mental disabilities, or death. There are more than 4,000 different known birth defects, ranging from minor to serious. Although many can be treated or cured, birth defects are the leading cause of death in the first year of life. Birth defects can be caused by genetic, environmental, or unknown factors.
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What are the common types of birth defects?

According to the March of Dimes, birth defects are grouped into three categories: structural or metabolic, congenital infections, and other conditions. Structural birth defects result when a specific body part, either internal or external, is missing or formed incorrectly. Metabolic defects usually involve a missing or incorrectly formed enzyme (one of the proteins necessary for processing chemical substances in the body). Metabolic defects generally are not visible, but they can be harmful, or even fatal. Defects caused by congenital infections occur when a mother gets an infection before or during a pregnancy. Congenital infections can cause children to be born deaf, blind, with mental retardation, or with heart defects. Other causes of birth defects include conditions like fetal alcohol syndrome, which is common in babies of mothers who abuse alcohol during pregnancy.
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Can birth defects be prevented?

The causes of many birth defects are still unknown. However, there are steps a woman can take to reduce her risk of having a baby with birth defects. Women who are planning to become pregnant should make sure their vaccinations are up to date and that they are getting the daily recommended dose of 400 milligrams of folic acid. Folic acid is found in orange juice and green leafy vegetables or can be taken as supplements in pill form. Studies show that this vitamin can reduce the risk of having a baby with certain birth defects of the brain and spine, including spina bifida.

A pre-pregnancy visit with a health care provider also is recommended. If a woman or her partner has a family history of birth defects, if a woman already had a child with a birth defect, or if a woman is part of a high-risk group (because of age, ethnic background, or medical history), she should discuss these issues with her health care provider. A health care provider can offer advice about genetic testing and gene therapy before and during pregnancy.
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