The North West Health MEC Sello Lehari today joins the global community in observing World Birth Defects Day. This is an annual global event dedicated to raising awareness about birth defects and advocating for the prevention, research, treatment and support services. The 2025 World Birth Defects Day is observed under the theme "Every Journey Matters". This theme emphasises that birth defects impact individuals, families, and communities, highlighting the importance of recognising and supporting every person's unique journey. Globally, the contribution of birth defects to the cause of death among under-5 children is unfortunately increasing and those who survive serious birth defects may be affected by profound, lifelong disability. Also known as congenital disorders, birth defects include most rare diseases. While some birth defects are visible at birth such as cleft lip, other internal malformations, including many congenital heart defects (CHD) and metabolic disorders may not be obvious at birth. Still others may only manifest later in life, such as Huntington’s disease. Birth defects can be mild or serious and affect almost any part of the body. The use of certain medicines, including both prescribed and over the counter medications as well as recreational drugs, alcohol use and smoking during pregnancy are associated with an increased risk of birth defects. Exposure to these should be avoided three months before pregnancy, during pregnancy and after birth while breast feeding. What can be done to prevent birth defects? • Take 5mg of folic acid daily before and during pregnancy. • Consult with a healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medications during pregnancy. • Attend prenatal care appointments. • Stay up-to-date on all vaccines. • Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, and taking other drugs. “Ongoing research is critical to further understand the congenital anomalies, advancing preventative strategies, directing policy and improving care and support services. Therefore we urge all pregnant women to take full advantage of all pre-natal care services offered by our primary healthcare facility to assist them to mitigate against some of the cases of birth defects” said MEC Sello Lehari



-ENDS- Enquiries: Tshegofatso Mothibedi Departmental Spokesperson 073 503 5045/ 060 567 3413 For additional information: Mr. Tebogo Lekgethwane Director: Media and Communication 0674227763 tlekgethwane@nwpg.gov.za