A birth defect, as defined by the March
of Dimes is, "functional or structural, - that presents
in infancy or later in life and is caused by events preceding
birth, whether inherited or acquired". In India, due to
epidemiological transition, a significant proportion of infant
mortality could be due to birth defects that occur in fetal
or neonatal period. Early detection of a developmental problem,
right diagnosis and medical advice help the families resort
to appropriate action and plan subsequent pregnancies. |