Causes and Prevalence
Cleft lip and palate (CLP) affects approximately 13,000 children annually in Latin America and the Caribbean, with 3,500 cases reported in Mexico alone. The causes of CLP are multifaceted, encompassing genetic factors and sociodemographic elements such as exposure to harmful substances like excessive alcohol and tobacco consumption during pregnancy, as well as early or late-term pregnancies.
Early Detection and Multidisciplinary Approach
Dr. Alejandro González, Director of Programs for Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean at Smile Train, explains in an interview with El Economista, that advancements in technology enable the early detection of CLP before birth. This allows families to receive timely and immediate professional care.
“When a child is born with cleft lip or palate, it’s a very strong shock for the family. Parents don’t know what to do, which is why it’s crucial to have a specialized medical team from day one. This includes proper nutrition for the baby and psychological support for the family to cope with this situation appropriately.”
Dr. González emphasizes that effective treatment of CLP requires a multidisciplinary approach, extending beyond mere reconstructive surgery.
Surgical Stages and Additional Treatments
He explains that a child with CLP typically requires at least three surgeries throughout their life, alongside dental and psychological treatments. This comprehensive care can be quite costly.
“The lip surgery is usually performed when the patient is around three months old, provided they have reached an appropriate weight. Palate surgery typically occurs between 12 and 18 months, though this can vary depending on the treating physician.”
“Unfortunately, there’s a lot of misinformation in our country. Parents often delay seeking treatment, so children as old as four, five, or ten years—even during adolescence—present for treatment, making it more challenging.”
Smile Train’s Mission
To support families of low-income backgrounds, Smile Train was established. The organization aims to train medical professionals from various regions to provide proper care from the outset.
Moreover, Smile Train seeks to secure funding so that families can access free medical care lasting up to 18 years due to the numerous surgeries required throughout a child’s life.
“Our patient care begins with reconstructive surgery, but it also includes orthodontics, speech therapy, psychology, nutrition. Smile Train specializes in cleft lip and palate treatment, supporting families of low income so children can receive professional care. We also empower local healthcare professionals to offer safe, accessible, and high-quality treatment within their communities.”
Key Questions and Answers
- What is cleft lip and palate (CLP)? CLP is a birth defect where a baby is born with an opening in the lip and/or roof of the mouth.
- How common is CLP in Latin America and the Caribbean? Approximately 13,000 children are born with CLP annually in this region, with 3,500 cases reported in Mexico.
- What causes CLP? The causes are multifaceted, including genetic factors and sociodemographic elements like exposure to harmful substances during pregnancy.
- Why is early detection important? Early detection allows families to receive timely and immediate professional care, which is crucial for the child’s development.
- What does multidisciplinary treatment for CLP entail? It involves reconstructive surgery, dental care, speech therapy, psychological support, and nutritional guidance.
- How does Smile Train support families and healthcare professionals? Smile Train trains local medical professionals to offer safe, accessible, and high-quality treatment. They also secure funding for free medical care that can last up to 18 years due to the numerous surgeries required.
