hide Environmental Public Health Tracking (EPHT) (original)

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The March of Dimes estimates that one out of every 28 babies are born with a birth defect and they are the leading cause of death of a baby in their first year of life. A birth defect is "an abnormality of structure, function or metabolism (body chemistry) present at birth that results in physical or mental disability, or is fatal." The known causes of birth defects are both environmental and genetic, however, there are many defects where no information is known about the cause. (March of Dimes ) Useful Links: PADOH Birth Defects PA Department of Health's site on birth defects. PADOH Folic Acid Information from the PA Department of Health on the importance of folic acid in preventing birth defects. CDC Birth Defects Site The Centers for Disease Control site on birth defects, which emphasizes the monitoring of birth defects, research, and prevention. March of Dimes Information on birth defects from the March of Dimes, including quick references and fact sheets. Birth Defect Research for Children They are a non profit organization that provides information on birth defects to parents and also offers information on support services for children with birth defects. Kid's Health A site which provides a general information about birth defects and related articles. International Clearinghouse for Birth Defects Surveillance and Research This is a worldwide organization dedicated to monitoring and exchanging information on congenital defects.