Cleft lip and palate is the most common congenital abnormality
worldwide, affecting 1.7 in every 1000 babies born. A child may
have a cleft (a deep split) in their upper lip, in the roof of
their mouth, or both. Cases of cleft lip and palate can vary
widely: minor cases may be nothing more than a small notch on
the top lip, while severe cases can leave the child with a deep
groove from the lip extending the full length of the mouth to
the nose, making breathing and eating difficult. Children with
cleft lip and palate may also experience loss of hearing and are
more prone to ear infections. What causes cleft lip and palate?
There are several possible causes of cleft lip and palate,
including a genetic mutation or exposure to some drugs during
pregnancy. Those that carry a high risk include epilepsy drugs
(phenytoin and sodium valproate), benzodiazepines and steroids.
Being exposed to a virus, drinking alcohol, or smoking when
pregnant are also thought to be possible causes of cleft lip and
palate. There is als