Every year, approximately 8 million children are born with a congenital disability, primarily due to incidents that occur after conception in the mother’s body.
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Nutrition during pregnancy is extremely important. (Photo: umich/VNE) |
According to the latest statistics from the March of Dimes charity (USA), the number of newborns with disabilities has increased in recent years, partly due to genetic defects causing heart defects, spina bifida, and neural tube defects, as well as Down syndrome. The remaining cases are the result of post-conception incidents, such as maternal infections with rubella or syphilis (which can cause brain damage in children), the influence of certain medications, alcohol, or iodine deficiency in the diet. Most cases are concentrated in poor countries, where newborns can die from simple and preventable incidents (approximately 70% of congenital disabilities can be prevented, treated, or improved).
The global rate of congenital disabilities varies significantly between countries; for example, in Sudan, there are 82 cases per 1,000 live births, while in France, the rate is 39.7. Researchers believe that the role of poor prenatal care, advanced maternal age, and consanguinity in low- and middle-income countries cannot be overlooked.
According to statistical results, populations in Africa, the Eastern Mediterranean, and Southeast Asia are more susceptible to common genetic diseases such as anemia, sickle cell disease, and G6PD deficiency. These regions lack adequate diagnostic services to identify high-risk couples. Experts also assert that the rate of congenital disabilities has not been accurately assessed worldwide.
“It is often assumed that congenital disabilities cannot be prevented,” said Dr. Jose Cordero, head of the congenital disabilities department at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In reality, “there are many opportunities to ensure that children are born healthy.”
Every woman of childbearing age has a 5% risk of giving birth to a child with a congenital disability, asserts Dr. Arnold Christianson from the University of Witwatersrand (South Africa). This risk can increase or decrease depending on various factors, such as whether the mother receives enough folic acid, has been vaccinated against rubella, has diabetes or other conditions that threaten the fetus, maintains good nutrition, and the spacing of births. Christianson emphasizes that “a healthy mother at the time of conception can significantly reduce the risk.”
The March of Dimes report highlights the need to improve health for all women, especially in terms of nutrition during pregnancy, while also enhancing family planning and raising awareness about congenital disabilities (research shows that under 40% of women in Africa are aware of Down syndrome), and providing good care for children with disabilities.
Mỹ Linh (according to AP)
