Özgür reported that unconscious use of drugs or even vitamins between the fourth and twelfth weeks of pregnancy is an important factor in the prevention of cleft lip and palate.
In some cases, the treatments take a long time
Hacettepe University Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Department Head Prof. Dr. Emphasizing that the disease in question requires recurrent surgical interventions, Özgür said that, according to last year’s data, 1 million 248 thousand babies were born in Turkey, of which one in 500 was born with cleft lip and palate. Stating that the treatment of some cases can last a lifetime, Özgür stated that 135 thousand people continue their lives in this way in Turkey, which has a population of over 80 million.
Attention between the 4th and 12th weeks of pregnancy
Pointing out that cleft lip and palate can be detected in the 20th week of pregnancy, Özgür said, “In order to prevent cleft lip and palate, unconscious vitamins and drugs should not be used between the fourth and twelfth weeks of pregnancy. To prevent this situation, we recommend folic acid before pregnancy. It’s an important factor.” .
Causes psychological problems in school age
Children with cleft lip and palate may encounter some problems especially at school age Explaining that it can be a mockery, Özgür pointed out that this situation also affects the psychology of the child negatively. Stating that children can become depressed with the onset of puberty at a later age, Özgür said, “It is not possible for individuals who have acne problems not to worry about scars. In these periods, families should help by giving morale” .
Turkey is very good in the treatment of cleft lip and palate
Cleft Lip and Palate Association Co-Chair Prof. Dr. Servet Doğan underlined that cleft lip and palate disease requires a special approach. Stating that Turkey has an important place in this field, Doğan said, “Turkey is not behind America and Europe, especially in the field of orthodontics. Our patients with cleft lip and palate used to have to go to other countries for treatment. Today, this situation has completely disappeared. Now, we share very valuable scientific publications at home and abroad” .
