𝗕𝗶𝗿𝘁𝗵 𝗱𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘀, or congenital anomalies, are structural or functional abnormalities present at birth. They result from genetic factors, environmental exposures, or both. According to WHO, birth defects are the third leading cause of death among children under five (WHO, 2025) and contribute to long-term disabilities, impacting individuals, families, and health systems.
In Nigeria, studies show varying prevalence rates. A systematic review reported a 𝟮.𝟲𝟲% prevalence among newborns (Moges et al., 2023), while another study indicated a range of 𝟮.𝟴% to 𝟭𝟱.𝟵% (Geda et al., 2023).
WHO urges countries to adopt integrated approaches to prevent, detect, and manage birth defects, including:
𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: Expanding rubella immunization, food fortification (e.g., folic acid), and quality pre-conception and antenatal care. 𝗘𝗮𝗿𝗹𝘆 𝗗𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁: Integrating newborn screening into healthcare services for conditions like hearing impairment and eye abnormalities. 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝘀: Ensuring access to treatment, rehabilitation, and psychosocial support.𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗕𝗶𝗿𝘁𝗵 𝗗𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘀 𝗗𝗮𝘆 (𝗪𝗕𝗗𝗗) is observed annually on 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝟯. Datametrics Associates Limited joins the global community to raise awareness and advocate for improved prevention, early detection, and quality care for affected individuals. The 2025 theme, “𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗝𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗲𝘆 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀,” emphasizes the importance of recognizing and supporting those living with birth defects while fostering collective efforts for a healthier future.
@datametricsassociatesltd echoes WHO’s call for stronger health system responses, urging stakeholders to invest in sustainable solutions for prevention and management. It calls on healthcare professionals, policymakers, researchers, and communities to champion the right to health for all.
#WorldBirthDefectsDay
#EveryJourneyMatters
#DatametricsForHealth