Cleft lip is a congenital defect that occurs when a baby’s lip or mouth does not form properly during pregnancy.
It appears as a small gap or indentation in the upper lip and can extend beyond the base of the nose and into the gums.
Its severity can vary greatly.
It may occur on one or both sides of the lip.
Cleft lip is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors that disrupt normal facial development during early stages of pregnancy.
Multiple genes, as well as maternal environment such as exposure to certain substances, medications or illnesses, could contribute to the occurrence of cleft lip.
People with cleft lip may face difficulties in feeding, speech, dental development, and frequent ear infections.
Its often corrected through surgical procedures within the first few months of life, with further treatments sometimes required as the child grows.
A multidisciplinary approach can help ensure the best possible outcomes in terms of function, appearance, and emotional well-being: pediatrician, a plastic surgeon, an otolaryngologist, a speech therapist, and a psychologist,
3.6 per 1000 live births among Native Americans, 2.0 per 1000 live births among Asians, 1.5 per 1000 live births among Indians, 1.0 per 1000 live births among Europeans, and 0.3 per 1000 live births among Africans.
More frequent among males.